Most often, we think of knowledge as something that families and friends pass down through generations. It’s true that grandparents and older adults often share their wisdom and memories lessons with younger people, like grandchildren.

However, it can also be passed up through generations! It’s easy to forget that there is a lot that older adults can learn from children, too.

Here are five lessons that older adults can learn from children:

  1. Explore your creative side
    • From crafts to singing and dancing, kids are known to express themselves as a part of growing up. Sometimes, we forget that you don’t have to be an artist to get creative! Whether it’s coloring books, singing, or painting, there are ways to be creative at any age. Some studies show that participating in the arts can contribute to the health and well-being of older adults. See how Penny Mutter, PACE CNY participant, flexes her creative side.
  2. Continue to learn
    • Through school, friends, and family, children learn new information all of the time. As an older adult, there may not be as much of an initial incentive to learn new things when it feels like you know everything there is to know. However, there is always more to learn! And – it’s good for you too. Studies have shown that lifelong learning is an important part of healthy aging. Reading is a great way to learn, discover the benefits of reading for seniors on our blog.
  3. Stay active
    • When you’re a kid, you’re always on the move. From the playground to soccer practice, children tend to be very active. While we aren’t suggesting a trip to the playground, there are many fun and simple ways for seniors to stay active that suit every lifestyle. Read our blog to learn some ways for older adults to stay active.
  4. Keep an open mind and stay curious
    • As a child, it’s easy to be curious when everything seems new. There are plenty of questions to ask every day. For older adults, it can be easy to fall into a routine. Luckily, there are always plenty of new things to try. If you are struggling to think of an idea, you can ask a family member or friend to introduce you to something they enjoy. Plus, studies show that keeping an open mind and trying something new is beneficial to the well-being of seniors.
  5. Have fun!
    • If there is one thing that kids know best, it is how to have fun. It’s important to remember to do things that you enjoy. Seeking joy each day is something from which everyone could benef­­­­it. Read our blog to learn about forms of therapeutic recreation, and how having fun can be good for you too.

 

Seniors can learn some valuable lessons from children when it comes to living a happy and healthy lifestyle. At Loretto, we take pride in offering robust recreational programming at all of our facilities to make sure that residents live life to the fullest.

Want to see how you can live exceptionally? Learn more about the Loretto Life here: https://lorettocny.org/loretto-life/

 

Resources:

Participating in the arts creates paths to healthy aging | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)

Lifelong learning in active ageing discourse: its conserving effect on wellbeing, health and vulnerability (nih.gov)

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy


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