The physical and social benefits of having a hobby:
Although having a hobby can be important for people of all age groups, studies show that hobbies can play a special role in keeping seniors happy, connected, and healthy.
As we know, isolation can be a particular problem for seniors, and often leads to depression. But studies show that having a hobby can help reduce isolation and give a senior a sense of purpose. When you’re interacting with others who are interested in the same hobby, it becomes a social event, and is very beneficial to one’s mental health. This can be especially important for seniors who are transitioning into retirement, as a way of coping with the loss of a job, a purpose, and an identity.
A hobby that involves some kind of physical exercise offers even more benefits. It can help improve mood, boost self-esteem, improve cognitive functioning and even reduce the likelihood of dementia and depression. And, of course, there are the physical benefits of getting regular exercise. In general, the more we move, the longer our life is likely to be.
Whether it’s gardening, golfing, art, movies, sports, music, or anything else that feeds your soul and makes you feel connected, the goal is to do something. The options are pretty much endless. Take up a new interest or revive an old passion. It doesn’t matter what it is, as much as that you do it on a regular basis.