Finding the right things to do in winter can help your loved one stay active, engaged, and energized throughout the season. Crafting, gentle exercises, and small group activities keep their mind and bodies active. Reading, puzzles, and music lift their mood and sharpen focus.
A 2023 America's Health Rankings report found that about 31.7% of adults 65 and older in fair or better health had no physical activity outside daily tasks in the prior 30 days. If your loved one is among that number, starting with small, enjoyable activities can help them regain energy and stay connected. With the right routines, winter can become a season full of movement, creativity, and meaningful social moments.
At Discovery Commons at Orland Park, located at 7420 W 159th Street, Orland Park, IL, your loved one can explore a variety of winter activities. These programs are designed to keep them engaged, active, and connected every day.
Helping your loved one keep a steady routine in winter supports balance, activity, and connection. Some of the winter activities for seniors that they can enjoy include:
Mixing various activities keeps the mind sharp and adds variety to each day. When your loved one has options, it's easier for them to stay motivated and enjoy meaningful social connections, even when it's cold outside.
Indoor activities can lift energy and brighten the day. Creative projects, gentle exercises, and social opportunities all help your loved one stay active. Examples of seasonal indoor routines include:
Even when outdoor activities aren't possible, these options keep them engaged and connected. They help the body move, the mind stay stimulated, and make each day feel purposeful.
You can help your loved one stay sharp and engaged with activities that stimulate the mind. Hobbies that challenge memory and focus can help build confidence and support mental clarity. Some ideas include:
Encouraging your loved one to participate regularly gives their brain a healthy workout. These activities also create structure in their day and provide moments of accomplishment in which they can take pride.
Even in winter, spending time outside can lift your loved one's spirits and boost energy. Safe cold-weather recreation can make the following moments enjoyable:
Make sure your aging loved one dresses warmly and wears supportive shoes for comfort and safety. Even just a few minutes outdoors adds variety to the day. Fresh air refreshes the mind and can leave your loved one feeling more energized and uplifted.
Helping your loved one engage in learning and creative activities can give their days meaning. Programs like these keep the mind active and encourage curiosity:
These activities offer a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment. For a loved one in memory care, programs should be tailored to their abilities. This ensures that they participate fully and benefit from personalized memory care programming.
Winter can make your loved one feel isolated, so staying connected is more important than ever. Even simple interactions can brighten their mood and help them feel supported. You can encourage connection in simple and meaningful ways like:
Regular contact helps your loved one feel included and motivated. Staying connected also encourages them to take part in other activities, making their winter days more fulfilling and joyful.
At Discovery Commons at Orland Park, your loved one can enjoy activities designed around their interests and abilities. Residents also have opportunities to explore new hobbies and build lasting friendships throughout the season.
Our seasonal programs include the following:
These activities can help your loved one stay active, engaged, and socially connected. Staff work closely with each resident to tailor programs for bothassisted living engagement and memory care. This ensures that everyone can participate safely and enjoy their experiences fully.
Winter days can feel long and slow, and your loved one might need a little extra encouragement to stay active. Start with small, achievable goals that are easy to enjoy.
Celebrate their efforts to build confidence and make activities feel rewarding. Switching up what they do and trying new options helps keep each day interesting while supporting both their body and mind.
Technology can make winter activities more accessible and enjoyable for your aging loved one. Video calls, online learning classes, or virtual music sessions help them stay connected and mentally active. Introducing tech gradually ensures that they feel comfortable and confident using it.
Proper nutrition can have a significant impact on any senior's energy and overall wellness. Encouraging balanced meals and staying hydrated will help your loved one maintain strength, focus, and mood. Healthy snacks and warm meals can also make winter days feel cozy and satisfying.
The right things to do in winter can keep your loved one active, engaged, and happy. Indoor hobbies and safe outdoor moments bring energy, joy, and connection. They are even more meaningful when enjoyed in the right community.
At Discovery Commons in beautiful Orland Park, just minutes from Tinley Creek Golf Club, our seniors enjoy assisted living and memory care with exceptional caregivers and thoughtful amenities that support a vibrant lifestyle. They benefit from chef-prepared meals, engaging activities, wellness programs, and personalized care.
Led by Executive Director Norme Torres, we provide compassionate, individualized support. Get in touch and experience life at its fullest.