The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many of us to stay at home or indoors to curb the spread of the virus, in addition to keeping us safe. We know that this is a difficult time, and many people have struggled, mentally and emotionally. This goes for your loved ones as well, considering they most likely aren’t tech-savvy and rely on meeting their friends face-to-face to stay engaged in the community. As such, here are some lockdown activities for loved ones that are fun yet take place in the comfort of their own homes.
Creative Pursuits
Aside from igniting our inner creative side, having a creative hobby brings along several benefits for your loved ones such as stimulating the brain and boosting self-confidence. All these are crucial in slowing down mental decline. There is a wide selection of artistic hobbies your loved ones can pick up, from woodworking to good old painting and drawing. Some may find knitting a calming activity, while others would prefer making jewelry and selling it online through Etsy. Honestly, the possibilities are endless. Simply encourage your loved ones to explore the many options and find one they enjoy.
Cooking
Cooking has always been a popular pastime for many people. However, the stress and responsibilities of everyday life have prevented them from pursuing further and dedicating more time to the craft. Now that we’re all in lockdown and staying indoors, this is the perfect time. Cooking is an excellent hobby to pick up as not only does it bring family and friends together, but is also a form of therapy. After whipping up a delicious meal, your loved ones would feel a sense of accomplishment and pride, which are great for their mental health in general.
Indoor Gardening
If your loved ones have an outdoor garden in their own home, do encourage them to plant plants and decorate their garden. If not, no worries, as they can also do gardening indoors. Gardening is an activity highly recommended for older adults as it is a form of light exercise, providing them with an opportunity to be more mobile and utilize their motor skills. Being surrounded by greenery can also reduce anxiety levels and boost relaxation. Oh, and of course, the plants can purify the air in the house. For indoor gardening, do take note to purchase plants that are suitable for indoors. If possible, go for those that are low-maintenance and can survive under little sunlight. Some indoor plants that your loved ones can get are fern, snake plant, and Heartleaf philodendron.
Puzzles
Last but not least, good old puzzles can never go wrong. Plus, your loved ones might enjoy this activity as it brings back old childhood memories. It should come as no surprise that puzzles are good for stimulating the brain, which is the key to preventing the onset of mental decline. The brain is stimulated due to the need for concentrating and solving problems during the game. Playing puzzles can also cause your loved ones to have better sleep patterns in the evening, as well as to de-stress and not worry too much.
