4 Creative Ways Seniors Can Stay Active

Smiling senior couple dancing in kitchen

There are so many benefits to staying active. You can improve those achy joints, lower your blood pressure, and keep your mental health in check! Here are four creative ways Seniors can stay active:

Sit Less By Having a Dance Party 

You are the dancing Queen (or King)! Try sprucing up everyday activities at home with a dance party. Need to sweep? Channel James Brown and let the broom be your microphone. Need to vacuum? Channel Celia Cruz and salsa your way to clean carpets. All you have to do is find your favorite decade of tunes! Pro-Tip: You don’t have to clean to have a dance party…just have fun! 😉

Try A Virtual Workout 

While our Y facilities are open and welcome you, the Y continues to provide great virtual fitness resources if you are more comfortable working out at home! You can try virtual personal training, YMCA 360: On-Demand Videos, and virtual group exercise classes. It’s a great way to stay active and see your favorite group exercise instructors or personal trainer.

Try Puzzles, Coloring, or Games to keep the mind active 

Break out the card games, puzzles, apps, or video games! Whether it is Solitaire or using an app like Lumosity, keeping your mind sharp is a must! According to Reader’s Digest, “puzzles activate both the left and right hemispheres of the brain” and challenging puzzles can “activate some new parts of your brain to help you solve the problem”. It’s a whole brain workout!

Take Time For Yourself. – Try Meditation or Keep a Gratitude Journal 

We care about your mental health and wellness! According to a Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is estimated that 20% of people age 55 years or older experience some type of mental health concern. Even if it is 15 minutes, try meditation apps like Headspace or Calm, listening to relaxing music, or gratitude journaling. Either way, take some time to center yourself and find some peace.

Remember…Stay Safe:

  • Wear A Mask & Wash Your Hands
  • Stay Hydrated
  • Create space for activities to prevent injury
  • HAVE FUN!