By Christine Stewart
Recreational and social activities are important for a person’s sense of well-being and may help them feel better. Try some fun activities to support yourself and the person you are caring for.
• Have a picnic for a nice change of scenery at mealtime. Spread a picnic blanket out and decorate the area (perhaps with some flowers, photos, etc.). You may wish to play some relaxing music in the background.
• Paint, draw and create crafts. Expressing creativity is a great way to feel more relaxed, centred, and in the moment – which can sometimes be hard as a caregiver.
• Purchase relaxation music and do some meditative exercises. They help with sleep, increase alertness, and improve mood and health.
• Find ways to stay socially connected, like having a friend over for tea, joining a seniors’ interest club (e.g., chess or model railways), going to adult day programs in the community, or volunteering.
• Look through photos and make up trivia questions for fun discussions and to remember past times. But avoid any difficult or embarrassing questions.
