For many older adults, making the move to a retirement community means newly found ample freetime. However, did you know that how you spend this time will make all the difference for improving your quality of life? This is especially true for memory care residents and those living with dementia. Having a beloved hobby can bolster cognitive function, enrich your social life, and improve your emotional well-being. 

Here at CountryHouse, we are proud to offer more than just the best memory care in Iowa. We provide a warm, inviting, and enriching environment for our beloved residents, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Engaging in a variety of hobbies and activities is not merely an enjoyable pastime but a pivotal component in enhancing life quality, fostering connections, and building joyful moments in our vibrant communities.

To learn more about the benefits of having a hobby, as well as a few suggestions for hobbies and activities that seniors can safely enjoy, continue reading!

Why Having a Hobby is Beneficial for Seniors

The significance of hobbies and activities, especially for our senior residents, cannot be understated. Having a hobby isn’t just something fun to pass the time – it can be extremely beneficial for a multitude of reasons. Below are a few of the amazing health benefits you can expect by routinely engaging in a hobby or activity:

Stimulates Cognitive Abilities 

Keeping up on cognitive function is a priority for older adults living with Alzheimer’s. One way to do this is to routinely engage in a hobby or activity. This is because various hobbies and activities actually work to help keep the mind active. In turn, this aids in reserving and even enhancing cognitive function.

Enhances Emotional Well-being

Unfortunately, irritability and emotional outbursts are some common behaviors associated with dementia. In an effort to combat that and help residents find joy, we encourage them to participate in favorite pastimes. This goes a long way in reducing feelings of stress and loneliness by creating opportunities for socialization and communal bonding. As a result, outbursts are minimized and quality of life is improved. 

Promotes Physical Health

Staying in good physical health is important for individuals of all ages, though it becomes a more increasing concern with age. If you’re looking for a way to stay active, taking up a hobby could be a great way to stay active. Many hobbies encourage physical activity, which can enhance mobility and improve overall physical well-being.

Forges Social Connections

Another major concern for older adults is isolation. This can lead to a number of health concerns, including an increased risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and more. However, by participating in various activities at the best memory care in Iowa, you can keep engaged with other residents. Shared activities foster social bonds, creating a supportive and connected community for residents.

These multifaceted benefits illuminate the importance of incorporating various activities and hobbies into the daily lives of our residents, ensuring that they lead a life rich in joy, connection, and robust well-being.

Suggested Hobbies and Activities for Memory Care Residents

Now that you have a little background information on why it’s important for seniors to stay active and engaged in a hobby, you’re probably wondering what’s next. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite hobbies and activities that we offer our residents here at the best memory care in Iowa. These are all both safe and engaging, proving to bolster quality of life. 

Painting and Crafts

At CountryHouse, we know how important it is that our residents express themselves creatively. That is why we offer painting sessions as well as fun seasonal crafts that our older adults can participate in. These sessions encourage socialization that helps keep seniors connected and involved. 

Baking and Cooking Demonstrations

Food is one of those universal love languages that transcends age or any other demographic. Here at CountryHouse, we know how important food is for connecting residents and bringing them together. Through baking delightful treats and offering lively cooking demonstrations, we do exactly that! 

Music Therapy

Did you know that music is a powerful tool that can bolster cognitive function? Whether it be encouraging them to play music or make time to attend one of our live, on-location concerts, music is an integral part of resident’s lives here at CountryHouse. Music is great at evoking memories, stimulating emotions, and sparking joy among our residents, while also offering a harmonious platform for social interaction and shared happiness.

Exercise and Movement

Our meticulously curated exercise programs not only prioritize the physical well-being of our residents but also promote enjoyable social interactions, creating a healthy and heartwarming experience.

Interactive Games

Games, both mental and physical, infuse our communities with vibrancy, fostering cognitive stimulation, friendly competition, and the cherished warmth of shared laughter. Whether it’s a game of Monopoly or a round of checkers, board games are great for connecting residents as well as improving cognitive function. 

Through a thoughtfully curated palette of activities and hobbies, we aim to offer not just the best memory care in Iowa but a home where every day brings new opportunities for our residents to explore, connect, and create.

Stay Active and Engaged at CountryHouse

At CountryHouse, we prioritize resident engagement and well-being. That is why we are proud to offer our Seasons program. This specially curated, 52-week curriculum of life enrichment activities makes life at CountryHouse truly something special. In addition to regularly scheduled exercise and social hours, our communities plan special activities each week that are inspired by the season, a holiday or local events and attractions.

To learn more about our community and how you can become a resident of the best memory care in Iowa, please contact us today! While looking around our community, you can dive deeper into many amenities and services we have to offer. Be sure to ask any questions that you may have to ensure that you or your beloved family member will be truly at home.