Fun Things to Do in the Winter at State Street Senior Living
For seniors in Dover, DE, there is no shortage of fun things to do in the winter months. From indoor activities such as bringing your exercise regimen into the home, to spending quality time with friends and family at assisted living events, seniors can cultivate meaningful relationships during this time of year.
Did you know that there is an increase in social isolation for elderly people during the winter? According to WPR, many older folks experience higher levels of loneliness as temperatures drop, which can cause health consequences that even lead to death.
One of the best methods for combating winter blues is finding fun things to do in the winter. In this guide, we will explore the best opportunities for winter engagement for seniors.
What Are Some Fun Things to Do in the Winter?
What exactly is there to do in the winter months, especially when colder temperatures keep residents primarily indoors? Here are some options for activities that you can add to your winter schedule.
Exercise Indoors
While taking a brisk walk in the snow can elevate your mood, seniors should move the majority of their exercise indoors. A controlled environment prevents accidents such as slips and falls, which increase exponentially due to icy weather and slush.
Visit a local mall or shopping center to try an indoor walking workout, or simply take indoor classes like yoga or pilates. If you prefer to work out by yourself, sites like YouTube offer thousands of video workouts to complete from the comfort of your own home.
Experience the Snowy Weather
While you should take appropriate precautions to handle the winter weather, experiencing the snow is a crucial part of enjoying winter in Delaware. Activities such as building a snowman can provide valuable family bonding time and bring out your creativity.
Spending intentional time outdoors is one of the best ways to actively combat seasonal affective disorder. The crisp air can boost your mood and give you new energy.
Cultivate New Hobbies
The increased time indoors during winter is the perfect opportunity to find and invest in a new hobby. Here are some key hobbies to try if you do not know where to begin:
Unleash Your Inner Artist
Art is a wonderful way to express yourself and create something beautiful that you can display in your home. Whether you are a newbie or an experienced artist, the act of drawing, painting, or sculpting can bring joy and comfort.
If you are unsure about which type of art to pick up, consider the following:
- Charcoal drawing
- Paint by numbers
- Pottery
- Watercolor painting
- Paper mache
Get Crafty
Many seniors pick up crafting hobbies as a creative outlet. You can make items for yourself or to donate to those in need. Some of the most popular needlework and crafting activities include:
- Knitting
- Crocheting
- Quilting
- Sewing
- Embroidery
- Cross stitch
- Latch hooking
Sharpen Your Mind
Cognitive stimulation is important at any age, but it is essential for seniors. Pick up a book of crossword puzzles or word searches. Consider learning a new type of game, such as Sudoku, which uses logic and the process of elimination to arrive at the correct solution.
How to Survive Winter Boredom?
Since activities in winter are often limited, boredom can set in more easily. Fill your calendar with events to combat boredom. Have hobbies at the ready if you want to spend time indoors, rather than wasting hours scrolling social media or watching television.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Winters Like in Dover, DE?
Winters in Delaware tend to be on the colder side, with temperatures dipping into the 30s and 40-degree range. Often, cities like Dover experience heavy snowfall late in the season, the recipe for a classic winter wonderland landscape.
Winter is a wonderful time to explore some of the indoor activities that Dover offers, such as a host of museums. If you can brave the winter weather, it is also a unique time to see some of Dover's beautiful outdoor landmarks cloaked in winter white.
Seniors can also take advantage of indoor shopping at the Dover Mall, which is a great opportunity for indoor recreation for older adults.
How Can Seniors Use Hobbies to Combat Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression, also known as the "winter blues," can strike at any age, but it can be debilitating for seniors. Many people with seasonal depression feel sad and sedentary during the winter months.
Seasonal depression can be caused by changes in the weather and temperature, as well as the shorter daylight hours. Additionally, grief often escalates during the holiday season, which can lead to an uptick in depression symptoms if you miss your loved ones.
What Are Some Winter Safety Tips for Seniors?
Winter safety is paramount, especially for seniors who may have balance issues or other health conditions. Make sure to dress appropriately if you venture outside, and wear layers. You can always take off layers if it gets too warm, but wearing too few can increase your risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
Take additional measures to prevent slips and falls. Look out for icy and frozen pathways that can cause you to lose balance. Wipe your feet completely before you enter your assisted living residence to avoid slippery floors.
Winter Engagement for Seniors at State Street Assisted Living
When the winter season begins, it does not mean you have to hibernate like some of the wildlife in Delaware. With this guide for fun things to do in the winter, you can engage in meaningful activities to make the most out of your seasonal senior lifestyle in Dover.
At State Street Assisted Living, our staff is dedicated to providing a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle for our residents through memory care activities, assisted living events, and more. Our exclusive programs include chef-prepared dining and exercise regimens tailored to seniors, prioritizing the health and wellness of our residents year-round.
Are you ready to experience all that State Street Assisted Living has to offer? Reach out to us today to learn more about our community, or visit our beautiful campus in Dover, DE, to view it in person. We can't wait to hear from you!