Favorite Pastimes Among the Elderly That Might Surprise You

20th May 2022

According to most studies, the top five activities elderlies engage in include jogging and walking, playing sports, and gardening. Among the elderly between the ages of sixty-five and seventy-five, physical activity is very important. At the same time, many elderlies enjoy other activities, such as arts and crafts, puzzle games, and bingo. Further, we take a look at favorite pastimes among older generations, and some of these may surprise you.

  • Playing Card and Bingo Games

For the elderly who struggle with restricted mobility, one of their favorite pastimes is playing card and bingo games. Playing games such as chess or bridge is also an excellent option for elderlies since these games encourage better cognitive functions. Aside from classic card games, elderlies are also big bingo players.

Seniors enjoy playing bingo games, and just like card games, playing bingo helps them improve their cognitive abilities and even stimulate memory which is especially important for elderlies struggling with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. On the other hand, online bingo games are more popular among younger generations. If you feel like playing online bingo, make sure you check out the Heart Bingo Promo Code and unlock your welcome bonus.

  • Doing Crafts and Creating Art 

Many seniors also enjoy doing crafts and creating art, and these activities are very beneficial since they sharpen their fine motor and physical skills, as well as increase their cognitive skills. Nobody can deny the importance of enjoying meaningful hobbies and activities and for seniors, picking an enjoyable hobby is even more important than we imagine.

Aside from sharpening their physical skills, doing crats also promotes self-expression, self-awareness, and socialization. Speaking of crafts and arts among elderlies, most seniors enjoy cricketing and knitting since both can be done with minimal equipment.

  • Walking and Swimming

According to this report from Geriatric Nursing, over 14% of elderlies between the ages of sixty-five and seventy-five prefer walking/jogging over other pastime activities. Aside from walking, many elderlies also enjoy swimming and playing other sports, such as golfing, Tai Chi, tennis, and dancing.

Each of these activities is an excellent form of exercise that offers tremendous long and short-term benefits, including significantly improved balance and strength, more energy, and improved mood. Elderlies who walk or engage in other physical activities regularly also have a reduced risk of developing osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease.

  • Gardening and Outdoor Maintenance

According to the report by Geriatric Nursing, around 13% of elderlies prefer outdoor maintenance and gardening over other pastime activities. Gardening and outdoor maintenance are also favorite pastimes of individuals over the age of eighty.

Elderlies who have a small backyard can do so much to turn it into a productive garden, while those who reside in flats can enjoy gardening and other outdoor maintenance activities at their local community gardens.

While these activities are well-suited for individuals of all ages, elderlies who enjoy gardening are less likely to develop dementia. Gardening is also associated with other health benefits, such as reduced stress, increased mental clarity, and better heart health.