All too often, people make the mistake of assuming that elderly adults have outgrown the desire to learn new things. It’s a myth that seniors are no longer interested in learning new things or expanding their understanding of certain topics. The truth is that many aging adults love to educate themselves and open their minds and understanding on many different things. From talking classes to new hobbies, seniors can get quite involved in new hobbies and activities.

When elderly people are not challenged in their daily lives, they can quickly become lethargic, uninterested, anxious, irritated and depressed. They may feel as if they are a burden to others or that there is nothing worthwhile about their life. Serious health issues can hinder a lot of their normal social interaction. That’s why it’s so important for seniors to get that self-esteem boost from learning new things and tackling something challenging, yet rewarding, such as a new hobby. With planning, their support group can help them launch into the activity they are interested in and assist as necessary.

So how can family caregivers and home care providers assist aging adults in exploring and trying out a new hobby? The first step is to do some research and help the senior figure out some things they would like to try. There are plenty of hobbies, both old and new, that aging adults can explore. Some hobbies are not as common while others enjoy a widespread following. Whether large or small, hobbyists can use the internet to connect with each other regardless of location, mobility and age.

For family caregivers and home care providers that are brainstorming some ideas of new hobbies to try, they must find out what the aging adult is interesting and narrow it down. Here is a list of some unique yet popular hobbies that may interest aging adults who are seeking something new to fill their days:

• Stamp collecting
• Coin collecting
• Bonsai trees
• Beekeeping
• Musical instrument
• Dioramas or miniatures
• Writing or poetry
• Fish tanks
• Leather crafting
• Video games
• Origami and paper art
• Scrapbooking
• Model rockets
• Astronomy
• Terrariums
• Container gardening
• Painting
• Yoga
• Baking
• Genealogy
• Jewelry making

Because of their dependency on family caregivers and home care providers, many elderly adults will need help setting up if they decided to begin. Taking a class may be a possibility, but most seniors need to find ways to engage without leaving the home often, if at all. From getting supplies to watching online tutorials or attending classes, seniors will need home care providers at first to help them get going in their new hobby.

There’s no reason for seniors to stop learning just because they are in their golden years. Learning new hobbies can bring a renewed sense of purpose and enjoyment that can last a lifetime.

If you are considering home care services in Salem, VA for an aging loved one, please talk to the caring staff at Acti-Kare of Blue Ridge. Call 888-451-5273. Our office provides senior care and home care services in the following locations including Blue Ridge, Lynchburg, Salem, Roanoke, Smith Mountain Lake, and Bedford in Virginia.