7 Challenging Activities For Seniors

Problem solving or doing something new that stimulates thinking processes is good for the mind. Seniors need challenging activities to help keep them mentally agile so that seniors keep their minds sharp, active and alert in old age.

Below are 5 activities for seniors to consider taking part in.

1. Computers – Learn computer basics like, sending an email, writing a document, attaching a document and navigating the website using a browser.
2. Take up a course – Study a topic you’ve always been interested in.  Community Courses are held in most areas and are often short and inexpensive to undertake.
3. Faith & Listening to Christian Music – Studies have found that faith also has a positive impact on the mental health of the elderly and the findings also suggest that the faithful have a better record of wellbeing compared to their counterparts regardless of age.  Listening to Christian music is also good for the soul.
4. Social Activities – Take part in social activities with your family and with your peers.  Studies have found that isolation often leads to depression.  There are many community based programs for seniors and the over 50’s in local areas around Australia or join a social group.
5. Hobbies– take up a new hobby like craft, knitting, sewing and painting.  These hobbies can turn into a job to supplement your income.  Photography has become a less inexpensive hobby with the digital era.
6. Read – Reading is a great way to keep minds active, alert and sharp.   Books can be exchanged with family and friends and can also be found at most local opportunity shops as an alternative and inexpensive way to keep reading.
7. Volunteer – Volunteer at a local church or Charity. They can always use extra hands and your talents won’t go to waste!

Sources:

Medical Daily – Religious Music Increases Mental Health In Elderly American Christians; How Faith Is Good For The Mind And Soul In Old Age

Where to Get Help in Australia

Talk to your doctor for advice before taking on activities that may impact your health.

Visit CCAA to search for a Christian counsellor near you.

Visit ACA to search for a counsellor near you.

Free 24/7 Counselling Services

Lifeline on 13 11 14

Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36

Headspace on 1800 650 890

Studying at aifc

For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:

• At The beginning of each year in February.
• Mid-Year courses commence in July.

Enrolments open approximately 3 months prior the courses commencing. Enquire now by filling out the form with your details to receive course information by email.

Note: A Masters course in Christian counselling will be introduced in 2018.

Contact aifc Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm with your enquiries on 6242 5111 or toll free on 1300 721 397