We’ve all heard the old cliché “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” The saying is popular because many times the older we get, the more set in our ways we become. But the truth is, learning something new has many benefits.

Help ward off dementia. Learning something new is good for the brain. Of course it helps add to the amount of things that you know, but exercising your brain is also a way to help ward off dementia. Whether you’re learning a new language or picking up Sudoku, you’re keeping your brain active.

Increase social opportunities. Many times, having a hobby can lead you to groups of people who share your interests, which gets you out of the house and gives you the chance to make new friends. Things like Master Gardener groups, quilting or knitting groups and book clubs are fun and good for the brain.

Keep you Occupied. Often, people who are working into their 60s will say they’re worried about retirement. The idea of days filled with empty hours can be daunting. But just think about how many times in your younger life you longed for time to pursue your interests. Now is the time to take those up, and having something to do that you look forward to is a great way to improve your mental health.

The opportunities are endless when it comes to choosing a new hobby as a senior. For people interested in the arts, look into creative hobbies such as quilting, knitting, performing in the community theater, playing an instrument, or taking up painting. There are academic pursuits that can expand your horizons, from book clubs to learning a new language. You might even be able to audit a college course at a local campus. There are many colleges and universities in Greensboro and Winston-Salem that offer this type of opportunity.

There are even hobbies you can pursue at your own home, such as cooking or gardening. Maybe you’ve cooked for years in a practical way to feed your family and that doesn’t seem interesting. Find new ways to make it exciting, like learning more about making pastries or studying up on a
different culture’s cuisine. For help in finding local resources and groups of people with similar interests, check out some of these organizations.

Piedmont Quilters Guild
Master Gardeners: Guilford County, Forsyth County
Community Theatre of Greensboro
Pickleball

Contact us, or call Piedmont Home Care today at (336) 724-1197 to see how we can help ease your burden, and provide the support needed to keep everyone safe and happy