A recent paper published in the Journal of Aging Studies revealed that engaging in creative activities can enhance a senior’s confidence and overall physical health. Here are five easy and safe DIY home projects seniors and their loved ones can complete with a few basic tools.
1. Chalkboard Walls and Frames
It takes only a few hours to build a chalkboard wall. As long as the wall is relatively flat, chalkboard paint should adhere to the surface with little or no primer. It then needs to dry for at least one full day. Many seniors let friends and family members help them decorate their walls.
Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional non-medical home care Anchorage seniors can trust and rely on.
2. Flower Arranging
Bringing flowers into the home is a great way to make rooms more inviting. Flower arranging is an easy and budget-friendly activity since many florists sell unused flowers at the end of the week for almost nothing. After your loved one has picked a handful of flowers, he or she should cut the stems so they will absorb water and live longer.
3. Crocheting
Repetitive movements such as crocheting and knitting challenge a senior’s cognitive abilities. As your loved one gets better at these activities, he or she can create complex patterns for blankets, sweaters, and stuffed animals. Crocheting can also enhance fine motor skills and reduce inflammation of the fingers, hands, and wrists. Seniors can get started with a few skeins of cheap yarn and a handful of crochet hooks in different sizes.
Knitting and crocheting can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in seniors. Aging adults with Alzheimer’s disease can benefit from receiving professional Alzheimer’s home care. Anchorage seniors need regular mental stimulation when managing memory-related conditions, and a reliable in-home caregiver who has extensive training in Alzheimer’s care can be a great asset.
4. String Art
This type of art has become extremely popular over the last few years because it is easy to carry out, and it does not require specialized tools. To create a masterpiece, your loved one will need some scrap wood, a few yards of thin yarn, a hammer, and some nails. The only problem he or she might encounter is hammering in the nails, but you can make this easier by purchasing a small finishing hammer with a comfortable grip and large head.
5. Upcycling Old Furniture
Giving life to old furniture can be done with a few cans of primer and spray paint. Seniors can experiment with different shades and designs and come up with unique pieces that perfectly match their personalities. As seniors become better at these projects, they can start using painter’s tape to make clean lines and eclectic designs. Before using any paint or other chemicals, everyone in the room should have a respirator to prevent breathing in the fumes.
Caring for an aging loved one can be challenging at times. However, this responsibility does not need to be undertaken alone. Anchorage respite home care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. If you need a break from your caregiving duties, call Home Care Assistance at (907) 770-0907 today.