Combating Boredom in Aging Loved Ones

Throughout June, TalkElder has discussed combatting the plagues of aging and given some suggestions and ideas.  Boredom is the last and sneakiest plague and can take the joy out of daily life if we’re not careful.

Many of our suggestions for loneliness and helplessness can also apply to boredom, so I wanted to stretch our minds to think outside the box and hopefully inspire you to find fun and different things to keep your loved ones engaged, happy, and active. We’ll dive into three main areas: lifetime learning, community and connection, and solo activities. Ready? Let’s dive in and get creative!

Lifetime Learning: Never Stop Growing!

Who says you stop learning once you hit a certain age? Absolutely no one! Keeping the mind active is crucial, and there are plenty of ways to keep the gears turning.

Virtual Travel and Cultural Exploration
For those who love to explore but can’t travel as much anymore, virtual travel experiences can be a fantastic substitute. Websites like Google Arts & Culture offer virtual tours of museums, historical sites, and landmarks around the world. Your loved one can explore the Louvre one day and Machu Picchu the next! 

Storytelling and Memoir Writing
Encourage your loved one to document their life stories. This could be through writing a memoir, recording audio stories, or even creating a family blog. There are online courses and apps like StoryWorth that guide them through the process, providing prompts and structure.

Online Discussion Groups
Look for online forums and discussion groups focused on specific interests. Sites like Reddit or specialized Facebook groups can offer engaging discussions on niche topics ranging from classic movies to rare bird watching. These types of forums can keep the mind sharp and connect them with like-minded enthusiasts. 

Community and Connection: Building Relationships

Staying socially connected is just as important as keeping the mind active. Here are some creative ways to foster those vital connections.

Intergenerational Mentorship Programs
Pair your loved one with a younger person who wants to learn a skill in which they excel. Programs like Eldera connect seniors with kids for virtual storytelling, tutoring, and mentorship. This is a win-win, providing a sense of purpose and connection across generations. 

Pen Pal Programs
Pen pal programs are old-school, but making a comeback, and they can be incredibly rewarding. Organizations like Love for Our Elders facilitate letter exchanges between seniors and volunteers worldwide. It’s a beautiful way to build lasting connections and receive heartfelt letters.

Solo Activities: Finding Joy in Solitude

While community and learning are essential, so is finding satisfaction in solo activities. Here are some creative ways to keep boredom at bay when alone time is on the agenda.

Bird Watching and Nature Journaling
Encourage your loved one to engage with nature through bird watching. A pair of binoculars and a bird guidebook can provide hours of entertainment. They can keep a nature journal, noting different species they see and their behaviors. Apps like Merlin Bird ID can help identify unfamiliar birds. 

Creative Arts Projects
Get into more specific crafts like mosaic art, pottery, or even building miniature models. Subscription boxes like SketchBox deliver art supplies and project ideas monthly, tailored for different skill levels. This provides a continuous stream of new creative outlets.  

Personalized Fitness Challenges
Fitness can be fun with personalized challenges. Set up a step-count competition with family members using a fitness tracker such as Strava, or check out Silver Sneakers to try virtual dance or exercise classes. 

Audiobooks
​​Audiobooks can be an excellent tool to combat boredom in older adults by providing engaging and accessible entertainment. Services like Audible offer a vast library of genres and titles, from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Additionally, many local libraries offer free access to audiobooks through platforms like OverDrive or Libby, making it easy for older adults to explore new interests without cost.

So, there you have it! Combating boredom in our aging loved ones is all about keeping them engaged, connected, and active. By encouraging lifetime learning, fostering community connections, and finding enjoyable solo activities, we can help them live vibrant, fulfilling lives. Remember, the key is variety and finding what resonates with them.

Here’s to keeping boredom at bay and making every day an adventure!


Together…