Retirement is often seen as a time for rest and relaxation—but it’s also an opportunity for seniors to pursue new interests and take up new activities. In fact, Lifetime Care says staying active and engaged helps older adults support brain health, boost mood, and enjoy socialization. If you or a loved one is looking to try something fun, this home health care provider of New York’s Finger Lakes region highlights a few hobbies seniors can enjoy—and the benefits these activities can offer.

5 Hobbies Worth Taking Up in Retirement

1. Knitting

Knitting is a fabulous activity for those looking for something soothing to occupy their time. By weaving together strands of yarn, seniors can develop creative works of their own—and wear them with pride. This hobby is also highly adaptable to fit the needs of the individual. For example, it can be enjoyed whether one is sitting in the park, participating in a knitting circle with friends, or spending time with a home health care companion.

2. Gardening

Gardening is active, creative, and relaxing. Whether designing a flower patch or growing an expansive vegetable garden, this activity offers a variety of health benefits—including vitamin D exposure, cognitive decline prevention, and comfortable aerobic exercise.  

3. Yoga

Yoga is an adaptable form of low-impact fitness. That means nearly every type of senior can enjoy this classic practice of stretching and stability—even those that may be disabled. With regular practice, individuals may find that their flexibility, strength, and stress levels improve.

4. Writing

Whether you prefer to piece together artful poems or craft long autobiographical accounts, writing is an excellent way for seniors to keep their minds engaged. Through writing, individuals are encouraged to not only reflect on past events and experiences, but also put an expansive vocabulary to use—practices that can help preserve speech and creative abilities into old age.

5. Watching Movies

Watching films is a tried-and-true form of entertainment that offers many advantages for seniors. Just by taking a trip to the cinema, audiences can keep their imaginations active by witnessing the lives and challenges of diverse characters. It’s also a fairly low-impact activity that can be enjoyed by groups and individuals, within multiplexes or during at-home screenings.  

If a loved one needs a little extra assistance with personal or medical tasks, living independently and enjoying hobbies like these may require the support of a home health care provider. With locations in Rochester, Auburn, Newark, Dundee, and Lakeville, NY, Lifetime Care is a non-profit agency that can introduce you to the compassionate, affordable, and convenient caregivers that can adapt to a variety of needs—including hospice and cancer care. To learn how this home health care service can help, visit their website or call a knowledgeable representative at (585) 214-1000.