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Many elderly people spend their days lonely and isolated with only infrequent family visits or trips to the doctor to look forward to. This shouldn’t be the case. Isolation is a leading cause of depression in older people and the study of gerontology shows that older people who are active in the community lead happier, more fulfilled, and often longer lives. So, if you are feeling a little lost and lonely, here are some great hobbies and activities to try.

Photography

Photography is a great hobby because you can teach yourself and improve with practice. There are books and online tutorials if you want some help getting started or to learn more advanced techniques. However, the best way to learn is to go out with your camera and start taking photos of things.

Art

If you’ve got some artistic talent, you could take up drawing or painting. But, even if you’re not artistically skilled you could have a go at card making, scrapbooking, or adult coloring. Artistic hobbies can be very relaxing and help to reduce stress. Ask at your local library or community center to see if they have any arts and crafts groups you could join.

Cooking

You probably cook to some extent already. But, whatever your experience or level of skill it’s never too late to start trying out new ideas. Why not invite some friends round for a dinner party to show off some new recipes?

Gardening

Gardening is a great hobby. It gets you outdoors, it’s really good exercise, and you’ll get a lovely sense of pride when you look out to see the results of all of your hard work. If you haven’t got a garden, consider an allotment.

Exercise Classes

Many of us stop exercise as we get older as we’re worried about the effects it has on our body or how much we ache the day after. However, it’s more important than ever that you try to keep your fitness levels up. While you might be right to avoid high impact exercises, classes such as step, water aerobics, or line dancing can be wonderful, even with an aging body.

Sports

Again, you probably won’t want to take on aggressive contact sports, but some sporting activity could do you good. Things like golf, tennis, and bowls are great sports to try when you are older, as you can socialize and play at your own pace.

Learning

We often appreciate education more as we get older, so why not take a class? You could try something at your local college or sign up for an online course. Some great options include a course on the internet or social media, so you can learn about new ways to communicate with your friends and family or take an online MAGMASM degree to help you to learn more about how to lead a fulfilled life as you get older.

If possible, try to have a go at some more social activities, which get you out there meeting new people. Spending time out in the community can improve both your physical and mental health and reduce your risk of many conditions and ailments. Getting out and trying new things can be scary if you haven’t done it for a while, so ask a friend or family member to come with you the first time.