Winter came in like a lamb this year but is expected to go out like a lion. The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting that 2022 could bring with it one of the longest and coldest winters we’ve seen in years. In some areas, snowfall is expected to reach record highs. The possibility of a rough winter, coupled with the rise in Covid cases, means that we may all be spending a bit more time indoors than we’d like. If you are a caregiver, you may be feeling concerned about how to fill the upcoming winter days with fun and engaging activities for your loved one.
Here are some fun activities to try with your loved one this winter:
Take a Scenic Drive
If your loved one needs a change of scenery, consider taking a scenic drive on a day that the roads are safe and clear. Whether you have a destination in mind or not, take the backroads, enjoy the sights, check out the local holiday lights, find your dream house, or discover a new favorite coffee shop. Taking a drive is also an excellent opportunity for you and your loved one to catch up or listen to some of your favorite tunes from back in the day.
Get Cooking
Whether your senior is an old pro in the kitchen or has never picked up a spatula before, cooking is an excellent way to get creative and connect. Your senior may prefer to gather inspiration from cookbooks and food magazines or enroll in an online cooking class. Either way, you’ll both have fun whipping up delicious treats and sharing them with your loved ones.
Tap Into Your Inner Artist
Gather some watercolors, acrylics, brushes, and canvases and encourage your loved one to try their hand at painting (or any other form of art, for that matter). Painting is fun and relaxing and helps to sharpen the mind while delivering numerous health benefits. Once they’ve gotten the hang of it, head to a local park to paint the scenery or a local museum to gather some inspiration. Consider an online museum tour if you’re trying to avoid public places
Get Exercising
It’s never too late to get in shape! The benefits of exercise are numerous and include optimal weight maintenance, improved balance and coordination, muscular strength, joint health and flexibility, and better heart health. Furthermore, recent studies show that exercise can help protect against acute respiratory distress syndrome and complications from Covid-19. If your loved one is working out at home, we suggest walking, tai chi, online fitness classes, and dancing.
Try Knitting
Knitting, along with sewing, quilting, and cross-stitching, is an excellent way to engage the brain while strengthening fine motor skills and, in some cases, relieving chronic pain. You senior may also be interested in giving back to the community by knitting for charity.
Before planning any new activity, consider your loved one’s abilities and interests to ensure that they have the best experience possible. Stay safe and warm this winter!