The winter months can be hard to navigate for older active adults. The cold weather and not-so-safe conditions outside all contribute to higher levels of depression during the winter months. It is important to encourage and engage in activities during the winter months that promote overall well-being. Below are some ideas that are safe, fun, creative, and will help keep spirits bright!

Tip #1 – Work on a Jigsaw Puzzle.

Puzzles encourage brain activity and can be a fun activity spread over several days and nights. They can be done alone or as a family. Puzzles can even be personalized with your loved one’s favorite pictures, etc.

Tip #2 – Craft together.

Crafts make wonderful gifts, not just during the holidays, but for anytime during the year. Quilting, crocheting, making flower arrangements, painting, etc. all keep the mind busy, can be done over several days, and at the end you have a gift for a special person in your life.

Tip #3 – Create a winter workout regime.

Going to the gym or track is not the only way to “get in” your daily exercise. Come up with a fun, safe indoor routine. Implement chair yoga, arm curls with cans, and intermittent walks around the house. Dedicated daily movement keeps the blood flowing, gets the heart rate up; as well as endorphins.

Tip #4 – Be a blessing toward others.

Focusing on others can be a nice distraction when the winter boredom creeps in. Use this time to make blessing bags for those less fortunate in your area. When we focus on other’s needs over our own we create a heart of gratitude. Blessing bags can include socks, crossword puzzles, lotion, small toiletries, and small snacks. They can be donated to your local shelters, churches, etc.

Tip #5 – Engage with your family.

Schedule weekly video chats with your family members. Smart phones and video teleconferencing websites allow us to stay more connected than ever. Staying connected helps combat the winter blues!