5 Hobbies for Older Adults With Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a central nervous system disorder that’s common among senior individuals. Parkinson’s commonly targets the motor system, but its progression varies between individuals. Parkinson’s also makes it difficult to conduct day-to-day activities and requires medical intervention to manage the symptoms. Outside of medical intervention, the best way to deescalate and manage Parkinson’s symptoms is to stay cognitively and physically active.
Explore several hobbies for older adults with Parkinson’s that can help alleviate symptoms to provide a sense of comfort while managing the disorder.
Singing Lessons
Singing helps improve any damage to the vocal cords that may be caused by Parkinson’s. Issues with eating, swallowing, or talking can also be improved by strengthening the muscles and soft tissues required to sing.
Model Railroading
Model railroading helps tune fine motor skills and provides a cognitive workout through creative design. Learning about model railroads is also an easy indoor hobby that one can practice through online sources or by attending community events, which can also help promote socialization.
Playing an Instrument
Playing an instrument is an ideal hands-on hobby for older adults with Parkinson’s. Playing an instrument strengthens the fingers and helps tune fine motor skills. Learning a new skill also helps activate important regions of the brain and boosts mood through the power of music.
Practicing Senior Yoga
Parkinson’s can prevent older adults from moving at full capacity without difficulty. A yoga practice that is specifically designed for older adults is a hobby that integrates the body and mind in a peaceful partnership. Yoga can help older adults with Parkinson’s practice balance, coordination, and core stability.
Playing Virtual Games
A modern hobby that can benefit older adults with Parkinson’s is virtual games. The colorful animation in virtual games helps engage the brain’s visual center and improves the player’s problem-solving skills as they attempt to reach the next level. Older individuals can play virtual games from any technological device; this activity helps provide positive reinforcement to maintain physical and mental engagement.
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