Social, extraverted seniors are probably yearning for some semblance of life before COVID-19, but many activities simply aren't possible or safe during a pandemic. However, social distancing and other safety measures don't mean you can't still keep busy and enjoy life. Here are 11 things you can enjoy and occupy yourself with right here in the Park Regency Thornton assisted living community.
Park Regency Thornton has a game room where you can play classic games such as checkers and chess. It’s simple and fun, and the board in the community room makes it possible to play chess by swapping the checkers for chess pieces. For those that like to keep their mind active, board games can occupy an afternoon and encourage friendly competition.
Cards are one of the most versatile activities due to the wide range of games you can play with nothing more than a deck or two. For avid card players, dozens of games exist to be played in groups, teams or individually. Some options include:
• Hearts
• Solitaire
• Spades
• Up the River
• Pinochle
• Go Fish
• Concentration
• Gin Rummy
• Cribbage
• Slapjack
You’d be surprised at how many card games can be played with a regular deck. Look up new games on Google for even more suggestions.
With streaming becoming more popular than ever, there are a wealth of great films spread out across all streaming platforms. Thanks to Netflix, Hulu and Disney+, anyone with an account can see the latest flicks or rewatch legendary films from the last several decades. Just one subscription unlocks hundreds of titles, including television series, documentaries and film favorites.
Residents at Park Regency often volunteer their time to worthy causes. Volunteer gigs might be limited for seniors during a pandemic, but you can take part in at-home efforts such as knitting blankets to donate to newborn babies in nearby hospitals.
The winter months in Colorado can be brutally cold, often dipping into the negatives at night. This poses a threat to homeless populations in the Denver area who may not have a place to shelter from the elements. In an effort to give back to the community, many residents engage in philanthropic endeavors. Collecting socks for the homeless is one such activity. Whether you collect old socks, buy socks or make a pair yourself, you can join your peers in donating them. Acts of kindness like this can make a huge difference in the lives of others.
Park Regency Thornton's parent company, Bethesda Senior Living Communities, is a faith-based organization that encourages the cultivation of faith. There are many believers living in communities all over the country, so finding friends who want to participate in a Bible study can be easy. If you’re meeting in person, make sure to social distance and wear masks to stay safe when you’re sharing verses or discussing insights. For risk-free meetings, try using FaceTime or Zoom. Free chaplain services are also available to those who need pastoral guidance within the assisted living community.
Cooking for someone else is always better than cooking for one. Learn how to make delicious meals for loved ones at cooking classes offered at Park Regency in Thornton. Many of the recipes taught are simple, so experienced cooks and newcomers could successfully cook a dish. Spice up your next family gathering with something new.
The Park Regency Thornton assisted living community also has a computer room available to residents. The internet has endless content, and anybody who knows how to access it can find books, magazines, articles, videos and online communities centered on their interests and hobbies. It can also be used to stay updated on world events, discover new hobbies or connect to children and grandchildren via social media. For a quick guide on how to use social media, check out our blog post on the topic.
With new CDC guidelines and salons not operating under full capacity, the concentration of customers to available stylists can make it difficult to find a booking. Park Regency assisted living offers its own salon services, making the hard part deciding which hairstyle to go with. If you’re feeling adventurous, now’s the perfect time to try out a new hairstyle.
One of the greatest disruptions due to COVID is the decreased opportunity to get out and about as a part of daily life. Staying active is an essential part of maintaining your body at any age, and Park Regency’s fitness center provides the environment to keep energetic residents mobile.
Guided crafts are offered as well, which is great for people who like to work with their heads or their hands. Having a creative outlet can help keep your mind distracted, and if you craft with friends, you can get much-needed socialization.
