Everyone likes to have fun. Most people, though, don’t think of fun as being important. That’s a big mistake. No matter how old you are or where you live, taking time to play is crucial for your well-being. And that goes double when it comes to fun for seniors.
The older we get, the easier it is to forget how much fun life can be. Health concerns, bills, taxes, and all the other details of life clamoring for our attention can drag us down. And as we age, there are more and more of all those details. Sometimes limited mobility or other health issues make it seem harder to enjoy life. And sometimes it feels like all the fun is geared for the younger set.
That’s an illusion, though. Life can be fun for seniors just as much as it is for your grandchildren.
Why Fun For Seniors Is Important
Fun and play reap a lot more benefits than just a momentary, fleeting good time. As a matter of fact, taking out time for play can make a huge difference in the quality of your life. How? Let’s count the ways. Or at least some of them.
Better Brain Function
Studies show that playing games can actually improve your brain function. Whether it’s chess, Monopoly, bingo, backgammon, cards or whatever else you like, the challenge of keeping track of your opponent and playing to win literally ups your mental game. You can even combine two activities at once and do your own mini fundraiser for your favorite charity. I know a group of seniors who did this for years by playing poker and blackjack with each other; over time, they donated thousands of dollars to the local soup kitchen!
Fun = Energy
The more pleasure you have in life, the more energy you’ll feel. You’ll have more of a desire to get out, to do things and try new adventures. And they don’t have to be exotic, either; a walk in a park you’ve never seen, a trip to a new mall, going out to eat in a restaurant that offers cuisine you’ve never tried – all these things add spice and spark to your days and your life. And that feeds back into your level of physical and mental vitality. Kind of like compound interest, but with your life. Which is your most important investment of all, isn’t it?
There’s No Ship Like Relationship
There’s nothing like shared moments to boost a relationship. If you live alone, try to join a club that fits one of your interests, or take classes at a community center where you’ll have a chance to meet new people and begin new friendships. If you live in an assisted living community, take advantage of the activities offered or even start your own.
Eating together with people you care about is another way to add fun and meaning to your day. Whether it’s grandchildren, nieces and nephews, your godchildren or friends, sharing a delicious meal with the people who fill your life is an easy way to enjoy yourself. And it doesn’t have to be expensive either. Great times don’t depend on black ties.
I Feel Good
Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical well-being. As a matter of fact, your emotional state has a lot to do with how good you feel physically, too. The more positive, enjoyable experiences you have, the more upbeat, positive and cheerful you’ll feel. And that has a direct effect on your health.
What do you do to add fun and enjoyment to your life? Please share in the comments below!