Boredom is an inevitable part of daily living. A monotony of activities can take away the excitement from anyone’s life. It is very important to offer a wide range of activities that cater to everyone’s interests or preferences. For residents at Hurl Rocks, SC senior independent living apartments, a variety of activities may be offered to bring the spice back in their lives. If you are running out of ideas about how to engage your residents, here are some creative activities that you can let them do.
#1 – Bring Out Their Artistic Side
Painting is one of the no fail, go to creative activities in retirement communities. You can give them a canvas or sketch pad and let them choose a medium they want to use. You may also try having a collaborative painting activity to boost cooperation and bond between the residents. You may also come up with an exhibit wherein their artworks will be displayed and their family and friends can come and see them.
Another creative activity you can offer is crafting. Your residents may already have a background in crocheting, but instead of them creating a crocheted item on their own, why don’t you try to come up with a specific theme for them to create. Each resident can make a specific granny square design based on the theme which they can sew in together to make a duvet, blanket or even a table runner. There are still other activities that can bring out their creative and artistic skills. They can make crafty items which they may sell during open house events.
#2 – Exploring Nature
Instead of being confined within the home or the halls, you can schedule a nature walk with your residents. Allow them to spot some birds or walk under the trees. You can also take them to an aquarium, zoo or the beach. Then afterwards, you can integrate these as theme in their painting or crafting activities. You can also allow them to create mini-terrariums or have a special class on Ikebana.
#3 – Have a Healthy Competition
To make things more exciting, you can organize a friendly competition once in a while. You can come up with a talent show to showcase their skills. You can also arrange a cooking contest or a fashion show. You can have prizes for the best performances and the like.
#4 – Socialization Parties
Another way to spice up the lives of your residents is to have a monthly or quarterly socialization party where they can dress up and stay longer into the night. You can ask them to create a decoration based on the theme of the party. Make it something that they will look forward to with interest and excitement.
#5 – Unexpected Trips
Treat your residents to trips that can also be a way for them to learn something new. Partner with local manufacturer or producer of goods which can allow you and your residents to have a day tour while also learning a thing or two from their products.
