Mobility issues caused by aging or disability can be a pain—literally and figuratively—but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy an active, fulfilling, and entertaining life. Many hobbies and activities can be modified or designed to accommodate specific mobility issues. These pastimes give those with limited movement a pathway to staying active - mentally and physically. It can allow the exploration of new interests and encourage the growth of joy and a sense of purpose.
Let's look at some examples of engaging activities for individuals with limited mobility.
Crafting and Fine Motor Activities
Regardless of their mobility level, many people can stay engaged and creative through crafting. Popular seated activities that require minimal physical effort include the following:
Crochet
Knitting
Puzzle-building
Model-building
Card games and board games
Painting
These hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment, foster creativity, and maintain cognitive function and fine motor skills.
Reading and Audiobook Apps
Reading a good book is a nice way to spend a few hours. The reader can journey anywhere, from wilderness frontiers to exotic planets across the galaxy. All required is a book or tablet, a comfortable headphone set or an app to link smartphones or Bluetooth-capable headphones, and a comfy seat.
If your family member has difficulty reading because of eyesight issues, a wide array of audiobooks are available online from free or paid sites. Here are some of the more popular sources to explore:
Google Audiobooks
Gardening
Gardening can be adapted to accommodate various mobility levels. It can be modified to allow one or more family members with limited mobility to tend the plants in an accessible way. Using raised beds or the popular container gardens keeps kneeling or bending to a minimum. Tending to the plants and watching them grow can be rewarding and therapeutic. Enjoying a fresh bouquet or savoring the taste of homegrown vegetables or herbs can foster a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Yoga and Chair Exercises
This activity can be beneficial for those with limited mobility at any age. Yoga and chair exercises are low-impact ways to maintain physical health and flexibility. Many yoga poses are easily adapted to seated positions, and chair exercises can be modified to address individual needs and capabilities.
Aqua yoga is another sport to explore and can greatly benefit those with joint pain or mobility issues.
Find Your Favorite Pastime and Commit
Living with limited mobility can be challenging, but many activities and hobbies can be adapted to the individual needs of those with impaired movement. The possibilities are almost limitless, from exploring new interests to adapting old passions. A simple activity like a weekly card game can enhance long-term relationships or forge new ones. A chair yoga class opens up opportunities for social interaction and entertaining fun. The key to a life in motion is to adapt activities that the individual finds enjoyable and fulfilling.
Did you know that you can get paid to help your family member with limited mobility? If your loved one has Medicaid, BURD Home Health can help you become their paid caregiver.