Clubs and Activities for Seniors

After her husband died last year, Elsa found solace on the sofa watching reruns of “The Golden Girls” and “The Andy Griffith Show.” With most of her family living in another state, the 74-year-old relied on Netflix® as her constant companion. Noticing Elsa’s isolation, a neighbor suggested they volunteer together as docents at the city’s fine arts center. By engaging again with her love of art and people, Elsa is also protecting her health and longevity.

A study published in the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” reports that social isolation increases the risk of early death. Researchers at University College London followed 6,500 Britons over age 52 for eight years. Of the test group, 26 percent who were more socially detached were more likely to die than those who were active in relationships. Social engagement and meaningful activities for seniors help stave off mood disorders and depression and boost cardiac health and the immune system. When older adults participate in clubs, hobbies and other community activities, they are more likely to stay physically fit with greater mental clarity.

“The new year is the perfect time for seniors to revitalize their lives with a new interest or leisure pursuit,” said Celeste Begley, Community Relations Director at Right at Home Boston and North and Merrimack Valley resident. “Every community has opportunities for the elderly to get out and join others in a mutual hobby or cause. If the club or program doesn’t exist, many seniors just dive in and start one.”

Celeste Begley suggests several social connections for aging adults including:

• Volunteering. The country’s seniors face no shortage of ways to volunteer, from disaster relief aides and handymen to museum tour guides and child advocates. Plus, a trend is starting where some nursing homes and assisted living facilities are inviting older volunteers to mingle with aging residents.
• Silver Sneakers. America’s leading fitness program for seniors provided at no cost by more than 60 health insurance plans offers classes and camaraderie for all ability levels at over 13,000 participating gyms and fitness centers.
• Computer classes. You’re never too old to learn computer and online skills. Picking up technology basics empowers older adults to stay connected with family and friends via email and social media and catch the latest news and stock reports.
• Book clubs. Those who are in book clubs gather every few weeks in homes, libraries, restaurants and other cozy corners to discuss the finer points of a pre-assigned book. People can even join virtual clubs on the internet to interact with others about the plot, characters and nuances of favorite reads.
• Garden clubs. America’s first garden club originated in 1891 in Athens, Ga. Today there are 5,000 garden clubs throughout the country that promote the passion of gardening, floral design and environmental awareness. The National Garden Clubs gives a green thumbs-up to garden societies and community service projects nationwide.
• Walking clubs. Get moving and become an organizer or mentor for a walking club in your area. Improve your heart health and develop friendships every step of the way. The American Heart Association list resources for how to “find fitness, friends and fun.”
• Wine clubs. Taste after taste, wine enthusiasts unite in casual get-togethers at wineries, homes, cafes and any relaxing venue to toast their passion for learning about and drinking wine. Find out how to start your own wine club.
• Meetups. Maybe it’s time to finally write that screenplay, practice a new language, try a Zumba class or improve your cooking. Local Meetup groups are surging in popularity as people of all ages gather to enjoy the things they love or would like to explore learning in the company of kindred spirits.

For additional resources on senior citizen clubs nationally, visit seniors.lovetoknow.com/Senior_Citizen_Clubs.

About Right at Home of Boston and North

The Right at Home Boston and North is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, Inc., serving the communities of North Shore, Merrimack Valley and Boston. For more information, contact Right at Home of Boston and North at www.rightathomemass.com, 1-877-500-CARE (2273) or by email at info@rightathomemass.com. To sign up for Right at Home’s free adult caregiving e-newsletter, Caring Right at Home, visit http://caringnews.com.