Activity ideas for Seniors

Active senior citizens may be limited in some way, but still be bright and happy to join into a fun or educational activity. Stimulating the mind and body has been proven to stall the aging process, which leads to better living.

Here are some ideas for simple, engaging, fun activities for seniors. Some seniors may have skills to lead games or classes. Otherwise, staff, teachers or family members may be brought in to lead or arrange weekly events.

Hobbies & Classes Suitable for Older Adults

Calligraphy
Digital photography
Flower arranging
Scrapbooking
Quilt making or sewing
Computer and Internet use
Ballroom or square dancing
Fishing or hunting
Foreign Language
Art and Painting
For more ideas, check city & college extension pamphlets for classes.
Craft and sewing stores often offer short-term courses and workshops.
For a longer term activity, look into semester-long classes at a local college.
Group Activities
A home or community garden can be set up in any sized area, even in containers.
A book discussion club is stimulating and accessible to most people. Books are available on tape and in large print as well.
Volunteer work for those in need can include making blankets, packing school supplies for children, and more. For ideas, search charities online or ask around at local churches and community organizations. There is always a need for help.
Recreational group exercise classes make movement more fun and tolerable. Aqua-aerobics (available at most YMCAs and community pools) are especially senior-friendly.
Movie night with popcorn and perhaps a 'theme' party could be great fun. Revisit old favorites or enjoy newer films at home or in a theater.
DVD travel "tours," complete with potluck food from the region is a real treat.
A choral group can stay in-house or travel to share joy with others.
A senior travel group could hire buses or carpool to attractions such as the zoo, local gardens, ethnic or interesting restaurants, art galleries, and more. Ask for special accommodations ahead of time, if need be.
Regular game nights can be fun. Try Bunco, Bingo, or a chess club, for instance.
Hold an English Afternoon Tea for Seniors
During the Holidays
These ideas can be adapted year-round for all holidays.

Making Christmas & Hanukkah gifts can be enriching. There are many books at the library and ideas on the Internet. Make gifts for family, friends, children, or a craft sale.
Trips to view Christmas lights are magical. Perhaps some will become inspired to decorate their home or center with twinkling lights.
Holding a toy drive or canned food drive for a food bank is rewarding and requires only a box with a sign and a little advertising.
A cookie exchange can work well with each person involved baking a dozen cookies per each other person in the group (plus a dozen to keep). For instance, if 5 people join in, then each person bakes and wraps (or bags) 5 sets of 12 cookies each (60 cookies total). At the exchange, each person trades cookies until everyone has 5 varieties of treats. Add extra fun by printing up recipes for each individual. And of course, stay, chat and have a warm drink.