Making Friends When You Are Retired
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Making Friends When You Are Retired

Making friends after retirement can enrich your social life and provide new opportunities for enjoyment and engagement. Here are some tips to help you build and maintain friendships in retirement:

1. Pursue Hobbies and Interests

  • Join Clubs or Groups: Participate in clubs or groups that align with your interests, such as book clubs, gardening clubs, or art classes. Shared interests provide a natural way to connect with others.
  • Take Classes: Enroll in adult education classes or workshops. Learning something new can help you meet people with similar interests.

2. Volunteer

  • Community Service: Volunteer for local organizations, charities, or community events. Volunteering not only helps others but also offers opportunities to meet people who are passionate about similar causes.

3. Stay Active

  • Exercise Groups: Join a fitness class, walking group, or sports league. Physical activities can be a great way to meet new people and stay healthy.
  • Dance or Yoga Classes: Consider joining dance or yoga classes, which often have social components.

4. Engage in Social Activities

  • Attend Events: Go to local events, fairs, or festivals. These can be good opportunities to meet people in a relaxed setting.
  • Social Gatherings: Host or attend social gatherings like potlucks, game nights, or coffee meet-ups.

5. Leverage Technology

  • Social Media: Use social media platforms like Facebook or Meetup to find local groups or events that interest you.
  • Online Forums: Participate in online forums or communities related to your hobbies or interests. This can lead to in-person meet-ups.

6. Connect Through Family and Friends

  • Family Introductions: Ask family members or friends to introduce you to their social circles.
  • Reconnect: Reach out to former colleagues, old friends, or acquaintances you’ve lost touch with.

7. Join Senior Centers or Organizations

  • Senior Centers: Many communities have senior centers that offer social activities, classes, and events specifically designed for retirees.
  • AARP or Similar Groups: Organizations like AARP offer local chapters and events where you can meet people.

8. Be Open and Approachable

  • Initiate Conversations: Take the initiative to start conversations with people you meet. Simple greetings and questions about common interests can spark friendships.
  • Be a Good Listener: Show genuine interest in others by listening actively and asking questions.

9. Participate in Local Community Activities

  • Community Boards: Check local community boards or websites for events and activities that may interest you.
  • Cultural Activities: Attend concerts, theater performances, or art exhibitions.

10. Join or Form a Support Group

  • Support Groups: Join support groups for specific interests or issues, such as health-related groups, caregiving groups, or grief support groups.
  • Form Your Own Group: If you have a specific interest or need, consider forming your own group and inviting others to join.

Building friendships in retirement involves putting yourself out there, being open to new experiences, and finding ways to connect with others who share your interests. By engaging in activities you enjoy and staying active in your community, you can create meaningful and lasting connections

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

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Activities for Seniors, Dementia
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Making Friends When You Are Retired
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

5 Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

If you are searching for “easy crafts for seniors with dementia“, this article will list five of the top activities for your loved ones.

Best Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

The best way to set up any activities or tasks for seniors is to make sure there is no right or wrong way to accomplish the task. All of the following activities are meant to be enjoyable. These crafts have been shown to improve confidence, self-esteem and even curb behavioral issues or depression.

Safety is the most important part of putting together these fun craft activities. Make sure you stay clear of any potentially dangerous movements and avoid choking hazards, as well.

1. Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking is a great activity, and one that is enjoyed by people of all ages. For seniors, this is an even more beneficial task, as it really puts their creativity on display. Equip the senior in your life with a magazine, newspaper clips, a small notebook and a glue stick. Leave the arrangement or goal to the senior and see where this leads. Bringing an example scrapbook for reference is always helpful.

2. Fun With Magnetic Letters

Put a large assortment of magnetic letters on a metal baking sheet. Then, see what your loved one can come up with. This is also a task that can be done as part of a group; which makes it more fun for all parties. Another way to use magnets is to just enjoy matching up and sorting the shapes, letters and colors.

3. Enjoy Some Play Dough

All age groups can have fun messing around with play dough and modeling clay. Grab a few cookie cutters and watch the senior enjoy this fun hobby. Try mixing in some essential oils to give the dough a pleasant sent. Make sure it’s non-toxic and do not store it in the refrigerator.

4. Sort Through Coins

Sorting through coins can be fun and productive, at the same time. This activity can even remind the senior of earlier stages in life, planning and keeping a budget for everyday life.

5. Keep A Beat With Homemade Shaker

This last activity has been proven to be very beneficial for seniors with memory issues. Keeping a beat will sharpen focus. The suggested way to keep a beat consistently is by using a homemade shaker. Our suggestion is to fill a plastic container with either dry beans or pasta.

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

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7 Core Exercises For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

7 Core Exercises For Seniors

Seniors can improve stamina, coordination, balance and posture by performing daily core workouts. If you are searching for “core exercises for seniors“, Desert Winds Retirement has 7 workouts perfect for you!

Best Core Exercises For Seniors

Here are some of the best exercises for seniors looking to strengthen their core:

  1. Leg Lifts
  2. Plank
  3. Bridge
  4. Squats
  5. The Superman
  6. Dead Bug
  7. Knee Lifts

Leg Lifts

  • Lie down on the floor.
  • Stay flat on your back.
  • Use a yoga or exercise mat for extra comfort.
  • Raise one leg approximately five inches off the floor.
  • Contract your abdominal muscles as you lift your leg.
  • Hold the pose for 3-5 seconds.
  • Repeat with the other leg.
  • Alternate leg movements.

Plank

  • Lie on your stomach with your forearms pressed on the floor.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Push yourself off the floor by squeezing your glutes, quads and abdominal muscles.
  • Don’t let your shoulder blades sag forward by continuing to press into your forearms.
  • Hold for 10-20 seconds.
  • Return to starting position.

Bridge

  • Lie flat on your back to start.
  • Bend your knees, keeping your feet flat on the ground.
  • Tighten your core while raising your hips.
  • This should form a straight line between your chest and knees.
  • Refrain from arching your back.
  • Hold this pose for a few seconds before lowering back to starting position.
  • Repeat several times.

Squats

  • Stand with your feet width-length apart.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Bend your knees with your arms stretched out.
  • Hold onto a chair with your arms for balance.
  • Bend your knees, getting your calves and thighs to make a 90-degree angle.
  • Only bend as far as you feel comfortable, though!
  • Do squats in sets of 5-15.

The Superman

  • Stretch your arms out in front of you while lying face-down on the floor.
  • Lift your head, left arm and right leg all at the same time.
  • Bring your arm and length approximately two inches off the floor.
  • Return to starting position.
  • Repeat the motion with the opposite side, alternating turns.

Dead Bug

  • Bend your knees while lying flat on the floor.
  • Pull your belly button in and your back towards the floor.
  • Raise your right leg so your shin is now parallel to the floor.
  • Do this motion while keeping your knee bent the whole time.
  • Bring your right foot back to the floor.
  • Now do the same with your left leg.

Knee Lifts

  • Sit with your back straight and feet planted on the floor.
  • Keep your knees a few inches apart.
  • Raise one foot at a time.
  • Make sure your knees come straight up from the starting position.
  • Try to raise your foot at least 3 inches off the ground.
  • Repeat the motion with each foot, 5-15 times each.

Benefits Of Core Exercises

There are many benefits of core exercises, especially for seniors. First off, core exercises will improve overall balance. All movements will be more controlled after working out your core. With the improved balance comes improved body strength and a reduced risk of injury.

A strong core will make daily tasks easier. Standing up or even getting out of bed is more difficult when dealing with a weak core. Stronger cores reduce pain levels by strengthening the lower back at the same time.

Independent Living At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for an independent living facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our independent living page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

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Golf Exercises For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Golf Exercises For Seniors

Golf is a favorite sport for seniors looking for exercise, competition and a little peace and quiet. But, with aging comes lack of flexibility and overall strength. Use this guide to help improve your game with a few simple golf exercises for today’s seniors.

Hip Stretches

The hips are a crucial asset for golfers. Your hips need to be loose whenever you approach the tee. Make sure to stretch out in the morning before hitting the links.

  • Lie flat on your back with your knees in the air and feet planted on the ground.
  • Bend at the waste with your torso remaining on the floor.
  • Drop both knees to the left side and hold the pose for a good 10-15 seconds.
  • Return to the starting pose and repeat the exercise, this time to the right. You’ll notice the difference this stretch can make for your swing.

Back Exercises

Back pain, especially when it persists, can be extremely difficult for golfers to endure. Be sure to take care of this issue before heading out on the course. Try a specific back exercise called ‘bridges.’

  • This stretch requires you to lie on your back while bending the knees and keeping your feet flat on the ground.
  • Have your arms flat on ground.
  • Keep your feet shoulder width apart.
  • Keep your shoulders and hands flat on the ground while raising your hips.
  • The hips should form a perfect, straight line from your knees all the way to your head.
  • Lower yourself back down to the ground, slowly.
  • Repeat this motion at least 8-10 times total.

Quad Exercises

Senior golfers may experience cramping in the quadriceps while out on the links. Here is a way to help avoid that pain.

  • Stand with both feet firmly on the ground.
  • Use a door or another large, heavy object to help steady yourself.
  • Bend one leg and knee while holding it firmly as close to your buttocks as possible. Use the hand on that side to hold your leg in this position.
  • Keep the pose for about 10-15 seconds.
  • You should definitely feel your quad stretching.

Leg Stretches

Your legs are vital to the strength you put into your swing on the course. Keep them loose, yet strong at the same time with this easy stretch.

  • Sit straight up in a chair, both feet flat on the floor.
  • Keep your back straight and slowly raise one leg, keeping it horizontal with the floor.
  • Hold for a good 3-5 seconds.
  • Repeat this motion with the other leg.
  • Do this motion 8-10 times on each side.

Looking for the best clubs for seniors? Click right here.

Independent Living At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for an independent living facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our independent living page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

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Activities for Seniors
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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Enjoyable Activities for Seniors

Enjoyable Activities for Seniors

If you’re searching for enjoyable activities for seniors, this post should help!

1. Spend Time Reading

Reading is a great activity for today’s seniors. It’s a nice way to pass the time and keep their brains engaged. It may also improve cognitive memory, reduce their stress, improve their sleep, and can help postpone cognitive decline. Even if your senior likes reading a physical book, paper magazines, using an e-reader or tablet, or listening to audiobooks, they can engross themselves in a good story, look at pictures, and can learn about interesting new issues.

2. Explore Various Hobbies

Hobbies are excellent for those seniors that have limited mobility. Activities that don’t need a lot of moving around includes cooking and baking, birdwatching, knitting, indoor gardening, playing or learning a musical instrument, or possibly learning new a language. This is also a great time to learn new things – there could be hobbies or interests that they have never had a chance to try before. Learning is also an excellent way to keep their mind active and can prevent them from being bored.

3. Regular Exercising

Even if your senior isn’t that mobile, there are still exercises they can try to help get their bodies moving. It doesn’t matter if they are sitting or are standing, they can still acquire the health and mood benefits they need, sometimes from types of chair exercises or chair yoga programs. There are also exercise programs that can be done utilizing a walker to keep them stable or just focused on their feet and ankles to help reduce swelling.

4. Start Getting Creative

Getting in touch with your seniors’ creative side is another excellent way for them to pass the spend time. Sketching and drawing, using colored pencils, painting, and sculpture are all great ways to get creative. Fun projects can include scrapbooking, organizing a family photo album, or starting a family recipe book. As an added bonus, being creative can also come with health benefits. Research has shown that creative activities can help those who are battling chronic illness to reduce negative feelings and increase the positive ones, reducing stress and anxiety, and strengthen medical outcomes.

5. Get Outside

Going outdoors to spend some time with nature is relaxing and an excellent mood booster. Even if having limited mobility means that your senior can only go to the porch or get next to a large window, getting a little fresh air or taking in the scenery is an excellent everyday activity.

6. Get With Happy Visitors

Asking friends or family that have babies or friendly pets to come over for a visit is another great way to engage with your senior. A lot of people perk up when in the presence of young children. And interacting with pets is another great way to bring cheer to them and reduce their stress.

7. Play Some Games!

Games and puzzles are a great source of fun times. There are so many games and puzzles to choose from and a lot of them can be played with other seniors, with visitors, one-on-one for face to face time together, and even by themselves.

8. Watch Some Movies, TV Shows, Or Listen To Music

If your senior is watching TV all day, each day it can’t be healthy for them. But a movie or a TV show can be an enjoyable experience every so often. Watching TV could even interconnect with a hobby. As an example, your senior may be interested in watching a documentary on a hobby they’re trying to learn. Or perhaps, channels like a cooking channel or a travel channel may inspire new recipes to try out or world destinations to learn about. Listening to music another enjoyable activity. Music can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and sometimes alleviate pain. It can also enhance immune function and sleep and can also help with memory.

9. Participate In Charities

Even if your senior isn’t that mobile or has to stay home, they can still give back to their community. Speak with local charities, hospitals, or religious centers and find out if they have any projects that your senior could participate in. This may mean creating blankets or gloves, creating no-sew blankets, or putting together care packages.

Find more activities for seniors at SLS Communities!

Assisted Living, Independent Living & Memory Care In Peoria, Arizona

Independent Living: Searching For Independent Living In Peoria or Independent Living In Phoenix? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of independent living services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Assisted Living: Searching For Assisted Living In Peoria or Assisted Living In Sun City West? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of assisted living services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Memory Care: Searching For Memory Care In Peoria, Arizona? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of memory care services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

If you would like to schedule a tour please give us a call at 623-343-5830. 

Activities for Seniors, Senior Living
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