5 Ideas to Unleash the Power of Play for Older Adults

It’s easy to unleash the power of play. It can be as simple as coloring or blowing bubbles.

Most agree that laughter is the best medicine and exercise is the cheapest cure. In like manner, play is pleasant and restores our sense of well-being.

Play is good for us and may even increase our longevity. It’s an essential component of our health and happiness.

So why do so many older adults avoid it?

Why do older adults stop playing?

Many older adults miss out on the benefits of play because they don’t want to look silly. But it can be a great way to show that you are still vibrant and young at heart.

Be playful. If the activity brings you joy and happiness, it’s okay!

Releasing your inner child isn’t embarrassing, it’s freeing!

And play is part of a healthy lifestyle.

Don’t deprive yourself of the restorative power of play because you are self-conscious.

Unleash the power of play and reap the health benefits it provides.

Health Benefits of Play

Play can reduce stress levels, improve mental well-being, increase overall happiness, and create lasting bonds with family and friends.

Playing makes you feel great at any age! It stimulates the imagination and improves concentration.

Feeling like a kid again is terrific for relieving stress and boosting energy.

Playing :

Stimulates the imagination and spurs creative thought
Reduces stress and worry
Induces a feeling of lightheartedness
Promotes positive emotional health
Increases energy levels

5 Examples of Play for Older Adults

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Let out your playful side. The point is to have fun without a specific end result. For example, go for a swim or ride your bike for fun – not because you’re trying to lose weight.

And don’t let mobility issues stop you from playing. Look for fun activities that are within your reach of physical ability.

No. 1 – Creative Coloring

Coloring improves focus and concentration – an important component of brain health. You’ll find adult coloring books for sale everywhere these days. Why not pick one up the next time you’re at Walmart or the grocery store? Or click this Amazon link to take a look at this best-selling coloring book for adults.

No. 2 – Dancing while cooking

It’s drilled into our brains time and time again – the importance of physical activity for remaining independent and healthy. If you don’t have a regular exercise routine, you’re asking to lose strength and flexibility faster than if you do. If you can’t bring yourself to work out, try dancing. Get your Big Chill dancing in the kitchen scene going. You’ll have so much fun while doing your body good.

No. 3 – Bubble Fun for Older Adults

Blowing bubbles is not only fun, but the stress-relieving benefits are also incredible. Inhaling and exhaling to blow a bubble, it’s like a deep breathing exercise. And it’s well known, that deep breathing relieves stress, slows heart rate, and helps calm a worried mind. Start blowing bubbles as soon as possible. This Bubble Wand Assortment Pack from Amazon will provide the stress-free play you need.

No. 4 – Skipping

When was the last time you skipped? If you’re physically able, do some skipping now and then. Movement is key to staying fit as we get older. Skipping is an excellent play-time endeavor to get in some arm and leg movement while having fun doing it.

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No. 5 – Hula Hoop Play for Older Adults

Admittedly, playing with a hula hoop requires some skill. And if you’re like me and you haven’t hula hooped in a while, it can be challenging. But that’s all part of the benefit. It’s a time-honored amusement that will reward you with satisfaction and increased energy levels.

Schedule time for play

It’s a good idea to add some play to our lives. But life is hectic with meetings, coffee with friends, birthday parties, grocery shopping, paying bills…the list is endless.

That’s why we need to schedule play. Adding it to our calendars as a must-do event reminds us to let go and have some fun. Frolic. Relax. Rejuvenate.

Our minds and body will be grateful that we took the time to unleash the power of play.

Conclusion

For various reasons, older adults are often reluctant to play. However, play is an essential component of health and happiness. It may even increase our longevity. As with anything of value, it’s a good idea to schedule a playful activity into our busy lives.

Sources: Bubbles for Adults
Photo Credits:
Woman Blowing Bubbles
Man Holding Hula Hoop