Just like you, we’re watching and waiting for the first sign of spring bulbs to peek out from under the ground. But, unfortunately, winter still has a little way to go.
As these final winter weeks linger, a lack of sunlight and cold weather can still make this an especially challenging time of year for many people. Finding ways to stay active – physically and mentally – can help boost our mood as we eagerly await the first signs of spring.
Fortunately, there are many ways to help seniors stay active and engaged during winter. We’ve compiled a few ideas and inspirations below to help you enjoy these last few weeks of winter.
5 Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Winter
Keep Learning
Winter is a great time of year to soak up knowledge and learn a new skill. Our personal care teams will tell you that continuing education improves seniors’ cognitive function, memory, and overall quality of life.
Pleasant View offers lectures and educational workshops on-campus to choose from. Many nearby colleges and universities also offer learning opportunities on a per-class basis. Try searching online for a specific topic that interests you, or use a general search term, like “free online classes.”
Embark on a New Hobby
Winter hobbies aren’t restricted to just those that involve snow and ice. Indoor activities like painting, woodworking, and playing a musical instrument can all be practiced during the winter – and year-round.
Are you looking for a social hobby? Join one of Pleasant View’s many resident clubs. Most clubs meet year-round and offer the opportunity to meet like-minded people and learn about a new interest.
Dine Out
If you feel like you’re stuck in the same routine, change up your day by dining at a restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Ask a friend to join you and make it a special occasion, or simply enjoy not having to prepare a meal yourself.
One of the best-kept dining secrets around is right in your own backyard! Hearth & Harrow Restaurant, located on the Pleasant View campus, was recently named one of Lancaster County’s ‘Best-Kept Secrets.’ It offers a restaurant, bistro, coffee bar, and outdoor patio where you and your friends can gather and relax.
Break a Sweat
We tend to slow down during the winter and skip activities like evening walks around campus with friends. By joining a gym or taking a community fitness class, you can keep your body moving without stepping out into the cold.
PVFiT is Pleasant View’s on-campus fitness center. Open to the public, residents and their family or friends can enjoy a workout together in the fitness center, join an instructor-led class in the studio, or get a low-impact workout in the saltwater pool. You can also improve your golf game all year long at PVFiT’s indoor, climate-controlled golf simulator room.
Catch a Movie
While summer blockbusters have their place, going to the movies is the perfect winter activity. Some theaters may even run well-loved hits from previous decades alongside new films. Make a day of it by pairing your moving showing with lunch or dinner. Be sure to check for senior discounts in advance.
It doesn’t take a medical degree to know that when seniors stay active, it is good for their bodies and minds. Physical activity lowers your risk of chronic illnesses and can improve your immune system. Maintaining your fitness year-round is essential to stave off injuries and stay healthy. Likewise, staying mentally active reduces symptoms of depression and can delay or slow cognitive decline.
Keeping your mind and body active during the winter can seem like an impossible task. But with a little creativity – and the supportive community at Pleasant View – winter just might become your favorite season.
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We invite you and your loved ones to visit Pleasant View Communities and discover the benefits our life plan community has to offer. We’ll take you on a tour to show you the beauty and joy of carefree living and how our on-site care services will be there for you through every phase of senior life. Contact us to learn more and schedule a tour.
