How Long Has it Been Since You Tried Something New?

How long has it been since you really made the effort to learn something new? As we age, many of us can get stuck in a rut. However, opening our minds to new ideas and trying new activities can provide seniors with a renewed interest in life and help keep the brain sharp.

The choice of hobbies and activities for retirees is endless and includes dusting off old skills or learning something entirely new. Things like painting and drawing classes can be done in person or online. The same goes for listening to lectures, joining a book club or writing workshop, and learning a foreign language. If you need more computer skills or would like to know more about social media, join a class and get started.

If you have always wanted to play an instrument, what are you waiting for? Neuroscientists and music teachers say it is never too late to learn. Scot Hawkins, a piano teacher in Silver Spring, Md., says, “Ability is low on the list of what's required for adult students. Instead, attitude — especially patience — is everything.” Playing music is a great mental exercise and can help keep brain cells alive that would otherwise wither and die.

Chess, trivia, crossword and jigsaw puzzles as well as strategy board games help sharpen our cognitive skills as do various computer and video games. Other suggestions for engaging activities include trips to local museums, concerts, and plays.

Have you begun the search for senior housing in Kirkland, WA? If so, we encourage you to consider MorningStar of Kirkland. Our calendar keeps residents busy with a wide range of activities and wellness programs including exercise classes, games, live entertainment and special events. Please visit our website to learn more about our community, inquire about availability and to set up a tour.

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA offers. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

Comments

Be an Active Partner in Your Medical Care

Experts suggest that a good way to reduce medical errors regarding your care or that of a loved one is to be an active partner in the process whether in a hospital setting, doctors’ office or the pharmacy. In fact, a study showed 7% of hospitalized patients experienced an event that was considered preventable which negatively affected their health. Furthermore, harmful errors in primary and outpatient health care settings are typically related to diagnoses, prescriptions and use of medicines. Mistakes associated with misdiagnosis result in delayed treatment for the real problem and having the wrong medications prescribed or supplied can cause serious complications. However, it is important to keep in mind that some medical errors are a result of patients failing to disclose all the medications they take including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Another problem is the failure to reveal pertinent details regarding a person’s prior medical history as well as lifestyle habits s...

How Many Steps Per Day for Better Health?

We have all heard about the value of walking 10,000 steps a day but recent studies show it may not actually be the magic number. One study published by JAMA found walking 7,000 steps or more a day may decrease the risk for mortality and offer better overall health. In the cohort study of 2110 adults with a mean follow-up of 10.8 years, participants who walked at least 7000 steps a day, compared with those taking fewer than 7000 steps, had a 50% to 70% lower risk of mortality. Researchers also noted, “There was no association of step intensity with mortality regardless of adjustment for step volume.” A 2020 study found a decreased risk for mortality in participants who took 8,000 steps a day than those who only took 4,000 steps a day. In the same year, another study found more steps taken each day were linked to lower rates of diabetes. Researchers say the bottom line is evidence points to the importance of increased physical activity. Before you begin walking, talk to your health...

Hosting a Senior-Friendly Book Swap Event

For book lovers, there’s nothing better than finding new stories to dive into and sharing favorite reads with friends. Hosting a book swap event is a fun, budget-friendly way for seniors to exchange books, explore new genres, and connect over a shared love of reading. Choose a Cozy, Accessible Space The first step in planning a book swap is choosing a comfortable, accessible space. A common room or a cozy corner in senior living Kirkland is ideal. Arrange seating in a circle or create small areas where people can gather, sit, and chat. Add a table or shelf for displaying the books, so everyone can browse easily. Decorating with a few simple touches—like tablecloths, flowers, or even book-themed decorations—adds warmth and excitement. A welcoming atmosphere encourages everyone to relax, explore, and enjoy the event. Invite Participants to Bring a Book (or Two) The beauty of a book swap is that everyone contributes! Ask each participant to bring one or two gently-used books they’re read...

MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Search This Blog