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As people age, it is only natural for them to experience some limitations, whether they are physical or cognitive. What used to be simple, everyday tasks can suddenly turn into responsibilities that can seem risky and difficult. Even the favorite activities of seniors can become unsafe in the same manner as before.
Gardening, for example, can be strenuous for elderly individuals because it can involve a lot of kneeling. This can put a strain on a senior’s knees and legs because their body cannot handle the activity in the same way they could once before. There is also a risk of injury when seniors regularly subject their bodies to this type of strain.
Knowing this, when people reach old age, it is important for elderly individuals to find activities and hobbies they can enjoy. However, it is also imperative that these activities are safe, age-appropriate, and within their physical and cognitive abilities.
If you or an elderly loved one is trying to figure out an appropriate activity to partake in, then fishing is a good option to consider, especially in the summer months. Fishing is a relaxing activity that can help lower stress and anxiety and it involves light physical activity that can be beneficial for seniors.
Continue reading to learn more about the benefits that fishing has to offer seniors.
1. Exercise
Although it may not be thought of as the most physical activity, fishing can still be a good source of exercise for elderly individuals. Simply casting and reeling a fishing rod can provide some essential movement that aids with hand strength, motor skills, and dexterity. Seniors will get even more of a workout if they can hook and reel in a fish. Even though it may not seem like much, the physical activities involved with fishing do greatly benefit seniors.
Because casting and reeling a fishing rod is a repetitive movement, it can also help hinder an elderly individual’s cognitive decline. In turn, this can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Some people who go fishing will visit a local pond or lake that is within walking distance from their home. In such a case, people may opt to just take a walk with their fishing gear to their spot instead of going for a quick drive. This walk to and from a favorite fishing spot can provide additional exercise.
2. Stress Reliever
Fishing is an activity that allows people to relax and enjoy the outdoors. As people sit and wait to see if any fish will bite, they can take in the moment as well as the scene Mother Nature has to offer. Oftentimes, the environment will be relatively calm and quiet, helping to ease a person’s mind and body. It can also help lessen one’s stress levels and feelings of anxiety.
For seniors, this is especially beneficial because less stress and anxiety help with heart health and blood pressure. In some situations, fishing has been known to decrease the potential for a stroke and heart attack.
3. Social Activity
Although fishing can be a solitary activity, it is also something that people participate in with family and friends. Elderly individuals may find themselves taking fishing trips with their grandchildren and adult children as a way to spend time and bond with them. Whether you are simply making memories with your loved ones, teaching younger family members about fishing, or having a friendly competition with others, seniors can find great social benefits in fishing.
The socialization aspect of fishing may not seem essential, but socialization is an important part of life that seniors should not overlook.
It is common for elderly individuals to live alone and/or away from family and friends. This can cause many seniors to experience feelings of loneliness and in some cases, loneliness can lead to seniors becoming depressed. Because of this, it is essential that seniors find ways and take time to socialize. Fishing is an ideal activity for socialization because there is plenty of time to have a conversation about catching fish.
Companion Care from Assisting Hands Home Care
Whether you or your elderly loved one is a fan of fishing or is eager to try out the activity, they might feel hesitant to go fishing alone. They might have lost their spouse and/or friends or do not live close enough to their family members who could accompany them fishing. This can discourage them, but it does not have to be this way.
At Assisting Hands Home Care, we provide companion care services in Paradise, NV, to provide elderly individuals with social companionship. Within these services, our professional caregivers will provide senior care, including personal care and help with other activities like meal preparation and transportation, as well as meaningful companionship.
Being a good companion for your loved ones is important to us. We will engage in friendly conversation to get to know your loved ones and build a personal relationship with them, and we can accompany them during their favorite activities, including fishing. Meaningful social companionship from our caregivers can prevent feelings of loneliness and depression while ensuring that they always have a fishing buddy.
With companion care services from Assisting Hands, elderly individuals will have the help and company they need to live safe, healthy lives at home.
