Ageing doesn’t mean slowing down – it’s about finding new ways to stay active and connected. Whether you love a morning walk, or meeting friends for a game of bowls, you might be surprised to learn your everyday activities are helping keep you active and healthy.
But if mobility or health concerns make it harder to do the things you love, it could be time to explore new hobbies and activities to stay connected.
In this month’s blog, we look at the activities you mightn’t have considered trying, which can be incredibly beneficial for your health and wellbeing and discuss how in-home care can help you do them.
The importance of staying active
Engaging in regular physical activity is a cornerstone of good health. It’s not about running marathons or lifting the heaviest weights, instead it’s about incorporating movements which suit your pace and preferences.
Regular activity can:
- Enhance physical health: Activities like walking or gentle stretching are shown to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility.
- Boost mental wellbeing: Exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, which can alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.
- Improve sleep quality: Regular movement can help regulate sleep patterns, leading to more restful nights.
- Enhance cognitive function: Staying active supports brain health, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
Finding the right activities for you
Choosing activities which align with your interests and physical abilities means you’ll not only enjoy them but be able to commit to doing them regularly. There’s nothing worse than feeling stuck in an exercise plan which you don’t love – and we find ways to avoid!
Here are some suggestions:
- Walking: A simple stroll around your neighbourhood can work wonders for your health and offers an opportunity to chat with your neighbours. Heading out for a walk isn’t always possible if it’s raining or too hot, so you could consider at-home exercise aides, such as treadmills or digital peddle bikes.
- Swimming: It’s gentle on the joints and provides a full-body workout. For seniors, there is often social activities on at community swimming pools during the week, including aqua aerobics, so get in touch with your nearest pool and see what they’re offering. It’s also a great way to cool down in summer, and warm up in the heated pools during winter.
- Tai Chi: This ancient practice focuses on balance and mindfulness, making it excellent for both body and mind. Many local Councils throughout Queensland run complementary Tai Chi classes in halls and community buildings.
- Bowls: Offering both movement and socialisation, bowls is a great low-impact sport to consider. With over 600 Clubs in Queensland alone, there’s bound to be endless fun to be had right on your doorstep.
- Crafts: While it’s certainly not marathon-level, you might be surprised to know crafts, like knitting, painting and woodwork, are also beneficial for our mental and physical health. Not only that, but they’re also a great group activity!
How in-home care can support you
In-home care services are designed to assist you in maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle. This doesn’t just mean your personal care and health, like cleaning and medications – although this is definitely included! There are a number of ways in-home care can help you reach or maintain your fitness and social goals, too.
Here’s how it can help:
- Personalised activity plans: Qualified carers can develop tailored exercise routines to match your abilities and interests, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
- Companionship: Having someone to share activities with can motivate you to stay active and provide meaningful social interactions. Our staff love heading off to bowling, or taking a stroll around your neighbourhood; we’d love to join you!
- Assistance with daily tasks: Support with household chores or meal preparation can free up your energy and time for enjoyable activities and exercise.
- Transportation: Carers can provide transportation to community centres, parks, or social gatherings, expanding your opportunities to stay engaged.
- Monitoring health conditions: Regular check-ins can help manage chronic conditions, ensuring that your activity levels are appropriate and beneficial.
- Respite support: If you’re caring for your loved one or partner, it can be hard to find time for yourself. We can come in to provide them with support and care, while you have some time for yourself for hobbies or activities.
How Focused Health Care can help
Embracing an active and social lifestyle at home is entirely achievable with the right support. In-home care services delivered by our qualified team of nurses, offer a tailored approach to help you stay engaged, healthy, and happy in the place you cherish most—your home.
So, lace up those walking shoes, pick up that paintbrush, or try a new recipe, and let the Focused Health Care in-home care team be your support in this important goal to maintain health and wellbeing.
Contact us today to find out more.
* All information is general and not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Focused Health Care can consult with you regarding your individual health needs.
References
- Victorian Government, Department of Health, BetterHealth, Physical activity – it’s important, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/physical-activity-its-important, accessed online 17 February 2025.
- Bowls Queensland, Annual Report 2023/24, https://www.bowlsqld.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2024/03/ONLINE-BQ-ANNUALREPORT-2023.pdf accessed online 17 February 2025.
