As people age, cognitive decline can occur as well as a decrease in confidence as physical limitations become more of an issue. You can engage your senior loved one in DIY projects that can help revive some of those lost abilities and even add new ones.
Benefits of DIY Projects
Studies have shown that DIY projects can have many benefits, such as enhancing cognitive function and increasing self-confidence. They stimulate mental processes while encouraging creative problem-solving skills to complete the tasks at hand.
By trying some new and fun activities, your senior loved one may feel more engaged in life and will have an increased sense of purpose and accomplishment. This can improve their overall confidence in themselves.
Types of DIY Projects
Your senior loved one can engage in several different types of DIY projects, depending on their level of ability. These include:
Painting
Painting can be done in a variety of ways and is great for seniors who are still able to physically do so. This includes traditional painting on paper or canvas, but also in the form of stenciling, collage art, ceramics, and other forms of art.
Woodworking
Woodworking is a great DIY project for seniors with upper-body strength, and good balance, and who are comfortable using tools. It can involve constructing anything from simple furniture pieces to complex home improvement projects.
Crafting
Rather than creating a tangible item, crafting allows your senior loved one to focus on individual elements that may need completion for an object to be created. This can include sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, paper mache, and more.
Gardening
Gardening is great for seniors who want to be out in the sunshine and active. It gives them a sense of responsibility as they create something new. This type of project can help spur creativity through design elements involved with planting and arranging. It is also an activity that increases physical health too.
Tips for Starting DIY Projects
To ensure your senior loved one's success, here are some tips for starting DIY projects:
Choose a Project That Interests Them
It is important for your senior loved one to enjoy the activity. Ask them what interests them in DIY projects and what activities they used to enjoy most. Even if it's something as simple as drawing a picture or painting with watercolors, these activities can be beneficial.
Start Small
Choose activities that do not require too much effort or stamina, so your senior loved one can complete them without becoming frustrated. You can always move on to larger projects.
Gather the Necessary Supplies
Gather the materials needed for your senior loved one's upcoming project so that it is easy to get started. This includes paint, wood, fabric, or whatever else may be necessary.
Ask for Help When Needed
DIY projects are a great way to involve family members as well. Ask them if they're willing to help out and offer words of encouragement throughout the project.
Senior Helpers Elmira-Ithaca Provides Needed Assistance
DIY projects can be a great outlet for seniors to satisfy their creative side while helping to maintain cognitive function and increase self-confidence. If your senior loved one needs help with a DIY project or daily activities in Elmira, Ithaca, Corning, Bath, Watkins, or Glen, Senior Helpers Elmira-Ithaca is ready to help. Check out all the ways we can help your senior parent today!