{"id":1016,"date":"2023-03-30T07:36:19","date_gmt":"2023-03-30T07:36:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/activeseniorsclub.co.uk\/?p=1016"},"modified":"2023-03-30T07:36:31","modified_gmt":"2023-03-30T07:36:31","slug":"popular-hobbies-for-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/activeseniorsclub.co.uk\/popular-hobbies-for-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"Popular Hobbies For Seniors {10 Most Popular}"},"content":{"rendered":"

When she is not meeting up with her friends or watching the telly, my grandma spends most of her time knitting. It may seem like a dull and tedious hobby, but she loves it and is continually getting better at it.<\/p>\n

Research<\/a> has proven that seniors with hobbies are healthier, happier, sharper cognitively, and likely to live longer.<\/p>\n

Whether you are looking for some fun and challenging activities for yourself, or want to introduce an elderly loved one to a new hobby, here are the best and most popular hobbies for seniors.<\/p>\n

Why Is It Important For Seniors To Have Hobbies?<\/h2>\n

\"Why<\/p>\n

Loneliness, social isolation and boredom are major problems<\/a> for seniors. They can lead to depression, anxiety and poor physical health.<\/p>\n

Having hobbies is one of the best ways of combating loneliness and boredom, especially for seniors who don’t have a part time job or a business to run.<\/p>\n

A hobby gives one a sense of purpose. It can also be fun and provide an opportunity to socialise.<\/p>\n

Some hobbies like hiking or swimming are great for your health and can help you maintain your strength and flexibility.<\/p>\n

The 10 Best Hobbies For Seniors<\/h2>\n

All the hobbies we\u2019ve picked are generally safe for elderly people. Of course, you should consult your doctor before engaging in any activity that you are concerned might be dangerous.<\/p>\n

For instance, some seniors may be sensitive to paints, which can make artwork less than ideal as a hobby. Other seniors may not be in the best physical condition to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking<\/a>.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s also important that you pick a hobby you or your loved one likes. They need to have fun while engaging in it. Otherwise, it will not be sustainable and can even lead to negative outcomes such as high stress levels.<\/p>\n

Start with a single hobby, then see if you can add a couple others on top. But be careful not to exert yourself too much. You can balance an active hobby like swimming with a more relaxed one like reading books.<\/p>\n

Now let\u2019s look at 10 popular hobbies for seniors with tips on how to enjoy each hobby safely.<\/p>\n

1. Walking\/Jogging<\/h3>\n

Spending time outdoors is relaxing and therapeutic. That\u2019s not just me saying it, it\u2019s a scientific fact<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Spending time in nature improves our moods as well as cognitive function \u2014 things like memory, concentration, problem solving and so on.<\/p>\n

So a hobby that takes you outside is a great idea. You don’t have to go into the forest to enjoy the benefits of being outside.<\/p>\n

Even a walk or jog around the neighbourhood or in the park is just as beneficial. On top of the above benefits, walking or jogging is also great for your physical health.<\/p>\n

You become stronger, it improves your blood flow, helps regulate blood sugar, helps you sleep better (which has a gazillion other benefits on its own) and it\u2019s also good for your brain.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s crucial that you do these activities within your physical capability. If necessary, consult your doctor, a trainer or physiotherapist for guidance.<\/p>\n

If you cannot jog, a brisk walk also does wonders for your health. If walking fast is also a challenge, a slow stroll also has its benefits. Use a cane or walker if you need extra support.<\/p>\n

Tip:<\/strong> If your loved one has dementia, make sure they are safe when they go outdoors. You can have them walk within a restricted area, accompany them outdoors or have them carry a smartphone or GPS tracker.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

2. Hiking & Camping<\/h3>\n

If you want to really get outdoors, consider taking up hiking and maybe even add camping to the mix.<\/p>\n

Note that hiking is more physically demanding compared to walking in the park or around the neighbourhood. So make sure you can handle it.<\/p>\n

That said, you can find easy senior-friendly hiking and walking trails<\/a>. Remember to carry essential outdoor and emergency gear like a raincoat, GPS tracker and snacks.<\/p>\n

Camping is also a great outdoor hobby for seniors. Look for campsites you can easily hike to (requires carrying a backpack) or drive to a campsite in a vehicle or motorhome.<\/p>\n

By the way, if you can find other people to hike and go camping with, that\u2019s even better. There\u2019s safety in numbers and it\u2019s also a great opportunity to socialise.<\/p>\n

3. Birdwatching<\/h3>\n

If you prefer a more relaxed outdoor hobby, consider birdwatching. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars and a field guide to help you identify the various birds.<\/p>\n

You can birdwatch at the park, at a national park or nature reserve or on your daily walks.<\/p>\n

See if there\u2019s a birdwatching community in your area. They may introduce you to additional birdwatching sites. You\u2019ll probably also make a friend or two.<\/p>\n

If you cannot go outside, you can also birdwatch right at home from your window. Get a bird feeder to attract birds.<\/p>\n

If you have a garden, leave out several birdfeeders, grow some bird-friendly plants, provide fresh water and put up a bird house.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a helpful video on how to attract birds to your backyard.<\/p>\n