Why you should try new activities with your older loved ones in Calgary

When’s the last time you tried something new with an older loved one in your life? Aging doesn’t have to mean nothing but the seemingly obligatory activities of bingo and TV reruns.

There’s still plenty of fun to be had at any age, which is why the StillMe movement is inviting Calgarians to try something new. The StillMe movement’s New-to-you Adventuring campaign is all about rethinking what a visit with an older loved one can look like.

New-to-you Adventuring

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Instead of considering that visit with elderly Aunt Faye another item on your to-do list, consider it an opportunity to experience something new. This can be absolutely anything, and outside-the-box ideas are always encouraged!

Think laser tag, line dancing, ice cream sampling, attending a street fair, signing up for an art class… You can even try axe-throwing, if that’s safe and comfortable for you both to do!

The new community events calendar on the StillMe website highlights all sorts of activities that are sure to inject an extra dose of fun into the time you spend with your loved ones.

And of course, activities should always be adapted to the safety and comfort needs of your loved one. Go with the flow, with a focus on time spent together rather than finishing a specific activity. You can check with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure or have any concerns.

The benefits of staying sharp

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Staying connected, being social, and trying new activities is good for the soul, but it’s also good for the brain.

Being active and having positive relationships are all evidence-backed ways to reduce your lifetime risk of dementia as you age — certainly a nice side effect to having a great time.

Wondering where to start? The new StillMe Community Events Calendar is a curated hub of local events and activities for all ages and generations, perfect for churning ideas and sparking inspiration. You’ll also see some fantastic local partners who are inspiring the community and getting people to think differently.

The Alzheimer Society of Calgary is a go-to for resources and information about Alzheimer’s and related dementias, and the StillMe Community Events Calendar is where you can go for connection, inspiration, and a little fun. Now, get out there and try something new with an older adult in your life!