Valentine’s Day is here again, and while our attention is mostly centered on our significant other, it’s important to remember our family members who might not have anyone this year. Old age and disability can affect how active and social a person is. For disabled adults and seniors with dementia, social and recreational activity becomes a daily challenge. The more mobility is limited, the more they can do is limited. Likewise goes for mental inhibitions, which can get worse with time. However, social activity is an essential aspect of maintaining independence and good quality of life, and it can’t be ignored. Valentine’s season can make people feel alone, but they don’t have to be!
Mobility, someone’s ability to move around in their environment, is how we are independent and can do what we want. Without it, quality of life decreases as social, physical, and mental needs just can’t be reached anymore. Many seniors suffer from social activity withdrawal as a result, and the psychological burden can take a serious toll. Many people with disabilities are often unable to maintain a healthy level of social activity throughout their lifetime.
Ways to Maintain Social Activity with Limited Mobility
Being With Loved Ones
During Valentine’s season, it’s hard for someone to be alone. Even if they can’t have that special someone with them, it helps to have close friends and family nearby. Strive to call each other weekly, get together as often as possible, and otherwise find some way to reach out to them. The more you continue to socialize with your loved ones, the more they’ll feel remembered and loved!
Physical activity
Even with limited mobility, aging adults and adults with disabilities should still get out and exercise to move their bodies around. This exercise does not have to be extreme – taking a walk, stretching, swimming, and even dancing can all be considered an exercise that will help maintain your mobility and independence. Of course, it’s much safer to be active with someone nearby – maybe a walk through the park or a simple nature trail with a loved one would be just the ticket!
Cognitive stimulating games
Health isn’t just physical – keeping your mind sharp is crucial through old age. Games that keep the brain working are a great alternative to recreational activities and are known to help fight dementia. These games might include crossword puzzles, table puzzles, word searches, and computer brain games. As with everything, it only makes it better to bring along someone close to join in the fun! Board games, round-robin storytelling, or charades work perfectly to keep the fun rolling and the brain running!
Join an Adult Daycare Center!
Adult daycare centers are an excellent alternative to helping seniors who struggle with mobility and need regular social interactions. It’s a cost-effective alternative to nursing homes and home caregivers and will likely provide more opportunities for social and recreational activities.
At Nevada Adult Day Healthcare, we help our senior citizens suffering from dementia, and disabled participants continue to move about their environment safely and are still providing them the social activity they need. Learn more about our Social and Recreational programs, and make an appointment to talk with our staff!
