Hobbies for Adults in Shelbyville, IN Assisted Living
According to a survey done by WTOP News, 36% of seniors said they unretired because they're bored. And out of those who haven't retired yet, 42% said they haven't yet because they fear boredom in retirement.
If you're a retiree yourself, or you're retiring soon, you might be afraid that you'll have too much time on your hands. But just because you're not working doesn't mean you'll be bored out of your mind. In fact, there are many hobbies for adults you can pick up, and there's never a better time than now!
If you're looking for creative hobbies for seniors in Shelbyville, IN, then you're in the right spot. We'll give you several excellent choices that you can consider.
Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts are a great option for seniors of all ages and mobility levels. Creative outlets are some of the most rewarding hobbies for older adults, and luckily, Shelbyville offers some amazing opportunities.
For example, The Parks & Recreation Department's Fiber Arts workshop allows you to learn or continue skills like:
- Knitting
- Crochet
- Felting
- Latch hook
- Macrame
Many seniors find these activities therapeutic, as the repetitive motions can reduce stress and improve hand dexterity.
There are also other local organizations and groups that host regular painting, scrapbooking, and crafting sessions. Whichever you attend, these group settings encourage conversation while working on projects, and they can help build friendships.
In addition, you'll have tangible results, which you can gift to your loved ones, donate, or display proudly.
Gardening and Outdoor Connections
Gardening is a good way to get outdoors, smell the fresh air, and get your hands in the dirt. It's both soothing and physically engaging.
The city maintains multiple parks with open green spaces and community-friendly environments, or you can grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables in raised beds at home. Even if you don't have a yard, you can tend to indoor potted plants or patio gardens. There are also gardening programs you can volunteer for.
No matter what, the time you spend outdoors will provide valuable vitamin D from the sun. Plus, the activity will foster a sense of accomplishment when you see your plants thrive.
Those who prefer lighter activity can simply walk along the trails in Blue River Memorial Park. This will give you the same connection to nature, but without the heavy lifting.
Music and Performance
Music can be a powerful tool for several things:
- Memory recall
- Mood enhancement
- Self-expression
You can join in on music programs, where you can do karaoke, sing-alongs, and choir rehearsals.
Another outstanding activity is group drumming. Not only does it encourage rhythm, but it also encourages teamwork and fun.
If you don't want to participate in music but still enjoy it, then attend local concerts at the Strand Theatre or listen to live music in downtown Shelbyville, which occasionally has community events with bands.
Games and Brain Fitness
Games are entertaining, that's for sure, but they're more than entertainment; they can strengthen mental agility and foster social bonds. So as part of your healthy aging strategies, incorporate games like:
- Card tournaments
- Bingo nights
- Trivia competitions
- Board game meetups
Some senior programs have structured brain fitness. You can participate in memory challenges, spelling bees, and book clubs.
Otherwise, hobbies you can do at home are:
- Crosswords
- Sodoku
- Word searches
Social Clubs and Gatherings
Do you crave community? Then, partake in social activities for seniors by joining social clubs.
In these welcoming spaces, you can mingle and relax. Examples of activities include:
- Ice cream socials
- Popcorn movie nights
- Card clubs
If you're spiritual, then look to your church for things like potlucks, Bible study groups, and volunteer events.
All of the above gatherings can prevent loneliness and help you feel connected to the wider community.
Creative Workshops and Legacy Projects
If you want to leave behind a meaningful legacy, then some hobbies allow for this. In Shelbyville, you may find weekly workshops in:
- Scrapbooking
- Painting
- Creative writing
By learning these skills, you can craft memory albums, write down your life stories, and dabble in poetry. From these things, you can create legacy projects to help preserve memories for future generations. While doing this, you'll also feel a profound sense of purpose.
Physical Fitness and Wellness
Staying active is absolutely necessary if you want to lead an independent life. Fortunately, you can turn fitness for seniors into hobbies, which makes exercise more enjoyable.
To start off slow, you can do:
- Yoga
- Tai chi
- Strength training
- Stretching
- Dance
These classes are usually designed with accessibility in mind, so older adults of all mobility levels can participate.
You can also go to local parks like Blue River Memorial Park to stroll the walking trails. Or for something more challenging, sign up for cycling tours.
Exercise can build your strength, improve your balance, and enhance your mood through endorphin release. So you'll feel extra good doing your hobbies!
Outings and Local Exploration
You'll often find outings on assisted living activities lists, and for good reason. Getting out of the house and your normal surroundings can provide you with stimulation and joy.
Even if you were born and bred in Shelbyville, there are always new opportunities to learn new things about your own city. So be a tourist in your own town and see what hidden gems you've missed.
Try These Hobbies for Adults
Hobbies for adults are important for relaxing and boosting your quality of life. And it's especially important for seniors who are retired and suddenly find that they have lots of time on their hands.
The beauty of hobbies is that they're so diverse, there's bound to be something for everyone. So if you don't like the first thing you try, don't be disheartened. Keep trying, and you're sure to find something that brings immense joy to your life!
Are you interested in seeing our senior living community in Shelbyville, IN? Then contact us today to schedule a tour. We at Walker Place Assisted Living often take our residents on invigorating trips to local destinations, such as parks, shopping outlets, golf courses, and more.