Isolation is one of the largest issues impacting elderly communities. Isolation leads to depression and serious health issues. In order to keep seniors happy and feeling like a productive part of society it’s important that they maintain an active lifestyle.

Just because someone can’t drive anymore doesn’t mean they don’t need to get out and enjoy life. Stellar Transportation is here to help keep the elderly active, we offer rides to Church, lunch, and anywhere else you or your loved one needs to go.

Here Are Fun Activities For Seniors

1. Adult Day Programs

There are many adult day programs available to help seniors remain active on a regular basis. Some of these programs are held a couple times per week while others are every day. Most offer an assortment of activities planned from morning to afternoon, including exercising, group lunches, fun outings and more. Some of these programs are offered through churches and temples, such as Melbourne’s Senior Adventures In Learning (SAIL) http://sailofmelbourne.org,

2. Senior Centers

Senior centers are very similar to adult day programs in that they offer a daily or weekly resource for fun outings, activities, workout classes and more. Senior Centers are typically funded by the federal and state government, and as a result may be free or more affordable than adult day programs. You should be able to find a list of local senior centers via a quick online search. Click here to start your search: http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/Public/Index.aspx

3. Meals On Wheels

Not only does Meals On Wheels provide seniors with a healthy, warm homemade meal, but it also helps to combat issues associated with elderly isolation. Along with a healthy meal, Meals On Wheels provides seniors with a healthy dose of human contact. It’s a wonderful feeling to see the same friendly visitor week after week for some good conversation or even a hug. Volunteers often become very close with their clients, building valuable relationships that promote a higher quality of life.

Elderly people of all economic levels and mobility are eligible to become a part of this awesome program, as well as other similar programs.

4. Get A Pet

Pets can help seniors stay more active; just make sure it’s not a pet that’s too much for a senior to handle. A cat, dog, bird or fish, any animal can make the perfect companion to keep seniors going on walks and/or caring for a living creature. Caring for others gives seniors a purpose they often feel void of. 

It’s never a good idea to surprise a senior with a pet, make sure it’s something that they are interested in and ready to invest the time and energy into.

5. Create A Garden

Help your beloved senior start a small and manageable garden. Similar to a pet, this helps give them something to look after and care for. Gardening also infuses exercise into their daily routine. Grow fruits and vegetables to add some deliciousness to the garden. Added bonus: seniors love to share the fruits of their gardens with grandchildren, neighbors and friends.

6. Water Aerobics

Exercise helps reduce the risk for developing diabetes, heart disease and arthritis, some of the leading issues elderly people face. 

Water aerobics is a wonderful form of exercise for seniors because it allows them to work every last large muscle group without the risk for falling or becoming injured. The pool provides an anti-gravity space where they can move more freely, while gaining confidence and strength. Surrounded by similarly aged people, seniors also have an outlet to meet new people and form relationships.

7. Volunteering In The Community

Soup kitchens, donation centers, animal shelters and many other non-profit organizations instituted to help the community need all of the help they can get. Seniors are welcome at many of these organizations. When seniors volunteer they get to contribute to their community, which can help fight off depression and provide meaning in life.

Search eldercare.gov to uncover nonprofits seeking senior volunteers. http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/Public/index.aspx

What If Seniors Are Resistant To Activities?

It’s not uncommon for seniors to be resistant to activities. They may be afraid that they will fall, feel uncomfortable, not know anyone or they may tell you they are just fine at home. Encourage activity by starting off slow or maybe even going along with the first few times until they experience the benefits firsthand and start to feel more comfortable.

Family members lead busy lives and so it’s not always possible to take elderly loved ones to any or all of their activities. In which case, you need a dependable transportation service you can rely on to safely and comfortably transport your loved one.

Stellar Transportation remains the leading team in Melbourne! We cater to seniors of all ages and mobility, plus we specialize in wheelchair transportation for seniors. Contact us today for a free quote!