Activities and the Elderly

People are genetically made to remain active their entire lives. In countries where a high number of activities exist for the elderly, there is a lesser number suffering from Alzheimer. Through these activities, people can organise their time and remain connected with the past, present and future.

 Being "involved" for the elderly is connected with health and well being.  Maintaining cognitive function through these activities can help the individual to deter loss of dexterities. Moreover, the interaction between the participants and the team coordinators deters loneliness and creates a warm social atmosphere.

Natural activities

Natural forms of exercising delay the deterioration of the health level in the elderly and improve their survival rate.  Exercising is associated with the postponement of infirmity and an independent existence. Individuals with chronic illnesses can improve their natural functionalism through all forms of natural exercises. Exercise improves strength, endurance, dexterity and balance.  Exercise and a simple but active life, such as walking and activities at home or the country, as well as sports, can deter or at least slow down the loss of natural functions. A scheduled programme of social activities, together with some light natural exercises, affects, in a positive manner, memory and brain functions.  

Long-term exercising increases oxygen intake capability and testosterone and developmental hormone levels, thusly supporting the cerebral functions. The advantages of a regular natural exercise regime concern the prevention of osteoporosis and reduce the probability of falls and possible cardio-respiratory illnesses.

To ensure getting the benefits from natural exercises, we can explore exercise programmes in the community; take on programmes adapted to the needs of the elderly, and check with a physician before initiating exercise programmes.

Volunteering activities

Millions of people, including the elderly, participate in volunteering activities. Volunteerism does not only help in keeping the elderly active, it also provides them with a sense of meaning and self worth that in previous years they received from their jobs.  Moreover, volunteerism strengthens their social integration and participation in their social environment.   

Recreational activities

The popular belief that elderly folks don't need to participate in recreational activities is false. The truth is that not many recreational programmes are right for the elderly or even try to adapt to their needs.  

Participating in the right programmes can even be therapeutic for the elderly. It can lift off their isolation and will combat loneliness and bereavement that are often experienced by people in this age group..