Hobbies are what we live for and work for in life. When it comes to Fall Prevention as we get older, we may need to think about adapting how we maneuver around while enjoying our hobbies. When you think about your quality of life and what brings you joy, you may need to plan out obstacles before you have some fun in your day.
For example:
- If you enjoy fishing- think about the ground you will be walking on:
- Is it uneven?
- Are there railings to hold onto as you walk to the shore?
- Will you be in a boat? Consider the transition from dock to boat and prepare accordingly (use a railing, ask for a supportive arm, wear appropriate footwear).
- Underestimating your balance is one mistake people make when trying to participate in activities that were enjoyed in the past.
- If you enjoy tennis but haven’t played in a few years:
- Do you have supportive shoes?
- Are you playing with someone who understands your level of participation?
These are a few things to think about as we grow older and modify the hobbies we enjoy. Don’t cut out the things that have always brought you joy, just find ways to adapt them to your level of ability.
And remember “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
Carrie Esselman, TRS CDP is the Life Enrichment program Manager at Valley VNA Senior Care. She oversees a team of professionals and all programming stemming from Independent Care to Memory Care. Our mission is to provide quality choices for senior care and through Life Enrichment we strive to provide evidence based programming that is specific to each individual that chooses to live at Valley VNA.