When you think of group activities for seniors, your mind probably goes straight to bingo. It’s the stereotypical senior activity, and there are certainly a lot of older people who love it. However, it’s not for everyone, it’s far from perfect, and even if you love playing a little bingo every now and then, you still have many other days and hours to fill.
If you’re struggling for ways to fill your time, take a look at these popular activities and classes for seniors.
Exercise Classes
It’s important to stay active in your old age. It’ll keep your heart pumping, your muscles strong, and your mind clear. If that exercise is performed in a group of like-minded people, you’ll get some social benefits as well.
But don’t worry, we’re not suggesting that you join a spin class or hit up your local powerlifting gym. A little tai chi or yoga is more than enough to tick all of those boxes without making you feel like you’re trying to give yourself a heart attack every week.
Walking Classes
If you prefer to do your exercise outdoors, then look for a walking group. In addition to regular exercise, you’ll benefit from getting plenty of fresh air into your lungs and can meet a few friends on the way.
Art Classes
If you have a knack for painting or illustrating, or you’ve always wanted to learn, then join an art class. You don’t need to be a great artist to join or benefit—the whole point is to learn and have fun. There are art classes for all levels, and you can learn everything from still life to illustration, graphic design, and even crafting.
Writing Groups
Once you retire, you have more time to do the things you’ve always wanted to do. For many, that means exploring creative writing, whether that be poetry, prose, scriptwriting, or journalism. There is an abundance of courses out there relating to these topics and it’s a great way to explore your creative side.
If you stick with the group, you could even turn your hobby into a little side hustle and start earning some cash. You are never too old to be a published author or poet and there is always room for more talented and hard-working freelancers.
Book Clubs
If you have a passion for literature and want to meet people who share in that passion, join a book club! These groups usually meet on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis and simply talk about books. You will be given a book to read, everyone will read it simultaneously between meetings, and then they will talk about it.
You don’t need to be an English professor or a lit graduate to understand these groups. Contrary to what TV and films would have you believe, members don’t just sit around talking about hidden meanings and how every book is a reflection of modern society. Sure, that’s part of it, but most of the conversation revolves around the story and the characters.
Even if your only input is, “I like the book because the main character was a badass,” that’s OK!
Chess
Whether you’re playing online, enjoying a few casual games with friends, or playing strangers at the local club or park, chess is a great way to stimulate your mind and fill your days. Most seniors have played the game at some point and understand the basic rules, so they only need a little refresher.
If not, don’t worry, as the basics are fairly easy and there are plenty of beginners to play against.
Music Classes and Live Music Events
If you’re over the age of 70, it means you were born during the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. You witnessed the rise of the Beatles and Stones, saw the emergence of punk, the life and death of disco, and so much more. Seniors have witnessed more musical revolutions than any other generation and often have a passion for great music played well.
If life has gotten in the way and you haven’t played or heard as much music as you would have liked, now is the time to change that.
Join a music class and jam with other old-school rockers, or simply spend more time visiting live events. Every town has its own thriving live music scene and once you get involved, you’ll meet some great people, hear some fantastic music, and experience life anew!