As we get older we feel it's even more important than ever to encourage our elderly friends and relatives to stay active in their hobbies and the things they love to do! One thing we always find when we're on calls and supporting with day to day activities is that often our clients haven't had many opportunities to do them, or haven't felt motivated due to not having someone to share the hobby with.
We've written up some tips on how to help someone become re-engages with things they love to do!
1 - Set aside some time for them to do their hobby
Often it can be hard to find enough time in the day to really sink their teeth into their hobby. Particularly if it involves setting things up and down, such as crafting. It can be really good to allocate a space in the day that you keep deliberately free for them so that they have lots of time to really enjoy it without feeling rushed.
It may take some encouragement, but it will be really worth it for the benefits. Be really patient, encouraging and positive about the activity.
2 - Take part in short bursts of the activity
Maybe the activity is something that your loved one hasn't done for a while and that's ok! Take part in short bursts of the activity with them, to help encourage them but in small steps so as not to overwhelm them. Sometimes, particularly for someone who struggles with motivation from low mood small steps and short bursts are the best way forward, but still have a hugely positive impact on their wellbeing.
3 - Introduce accessible hobbies
It can be so easy to put down a hobby and never touch it again if the task is too challenging or inaccessible. Set small attainable goals and start easy so that your loved one leaves every attempt with a sense of achievement and feeling positive so that they feel better motivated to give it another go later one.
You can add in extra goals as your loved feels comfortable to make it slightly more challenging each time, but still fitting within their level of capability so as not to put them off.
4 - Consider adaptions that might be needed to accommodate your loved one
Activities can sometimes become a thing of the past as people begin to struggle with memory loss, sight loss and mobility issues. So it's important to take the person's needs into account when planning any activities. Think about the activity and any adaptions that can be made so that your loved one can still take part. For example, modifying paint brushes so that the handles are larger for better grip.
Often there are lots of materials available on places like amazon made with extra accessibility measures, so it's always worth a browse for ideas and tips!
5 - Always end on a positive note
Ending on a positive note in any activity will have a huge impact on how someone remembers it. It's also a really good way to help someone to feel motivated to take part in the activity again later on. So always end the session positively, offer some kind words on how well they did, or a compliment about what they made.
Remember: Accessibility is key, Encouragement is key, Attainable goals are key. Farrow Friends are always happy to help if you'd like any support to help you or your loved one take part in activities you used to enjoy! why not contact us at info@farrowfriends.co.uk?
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