22 Mood-Boosting Winter Activities for Seniors

Are you feeling the winter doldrums? If so, you’re not alone in looking for new winter activities for seniors. The first quarter of the year is far less busy than the holiday season, and the colder weather encourages most of us to stay indoors. For many seniors, this time between New Year’s Day and the warmer weather of spring can be a struggle to find entertainment.

Finding winter activities for seniors

Despite these challenges, there are ways you can stay active, and even have a little fun, this time of year. These winter activities for seniors will keep your mind and body in motion all season long.

For adventurers

Volunteering: There’s no better adventure than helping others. Research local charities in need of extra volunteer help this winter. In addition, a great place to find volunteer opportunities around the county is Volunteer.gov.
Attending a concert: Plenty of local organizations, including high schools, host concerts throughout the winter. Check out your community calendar to find out what’s happening in your area that appeals to you.
Visiting a museum: Museums are one of the best winter activities for seniors. And they aren’t just found in big cities! Communities nationwide are home to unique and exciting museums and galleries waiting for you to explore them. You can even explore many museums virtually!
Traveling with friends: Winter is an excellent time to visit a new place—especially somewhere warm. But, before you finalize your plans, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance to protect your trip!

For foodies

Hosting a baking party: No list of winter activities for seniors would be complete without baked goods! If you’re a lover of the Great British Bake Show like we are, plan a baking day with friends. You can even try out some of their recipes as you enjoy fun, fellowship and homemade treats. And, the old standbys are great, but a few new recipes will definitely add some spice to your party!
Preparing a themed potluck: Interested in trying new foods? Invite family and friends to make and bring dishes to a themed potluck. Explore the cuisine of a specific type of country, culture or region of the world from your very own kitchen. You’ll expand your palette, and you just might learn something new!
Tasting teas: The history of tea is rich and storied. Did you know there are thousands of varieties of tea? If you’re a tea lover, pick a few unusual ones and grab some like-minded friends. Together, you can brew up a delicious cuppa that will warm up a cold winter day. Just don’t forget the tea sandwiches and cookies!
Attending a cooking class: If cooking or baking on your own seems overwhelming, you can always ask for professional help. Take a cooking class and let a professional chef show you how to prepare new and interesting recipes.

For athletes

Walking the mall: Shopping malls are an excellent place to get your steps in. Luckily, most malls allow walkers to enter a few hours before stores open. And, if you don’t want to walk alone, you can always invite someone you know or make a new friend who is a fellow walker!
Venturing outside: Depending on your local climate and cold tolerance, winter can be a beautiful time to be outdoors. On mild days, consider a mid-afternoon walk when the air is warmest.
Going ice skating: Ice skating is an excellent low-impact, aerobic exercise that can be calming and almost meditative. There is a risk of falling, though! So, before lacing up your skates, don’t be afraid to rent a skate aid or ice walker. They’re not just for kids!
Joining a gym: You don’t have to be a bodybuilder to join a gym. They also have plenty of opportunities for seniors. Practice gentle yoga, take a Silver Sneakers class, or take advantage of the indoor track. You can even swim the lap pool to stay fit all winter long, depending on the amenities available.
Golfing with a simulator: Indoor golf simulators have grown in popularity and can now be found in towns nationwide. You can virtually play 18 holes at Pebble Beach or Torrey Pines, even when snow is on the ground!

For creators

Creating something new: Pinterest and other online creative forums offer practically endless ideas for new and exciting crafts. But they don’t have to be complicated—or expensive! Making a winter wreath or simply cutting snowflakes with your grandkids are great winter activities for seniors.
Scrapbooking your favorite memories: From incredibly detailed pages that celebrate life events with stickers, stencils or stitching to simple pages featuring photos and personalized captions, a scrapbook can mean a lot to future generations. Your local craft store will have all the supplies you need to get started. And, don’t forget the glitter!
Taking photos: Have you ever tried photography for fun? Capture winter’s beauty by venturing outside to photograph local landscapes. Need some inspiration?
Painting and sipping: These fun classes encourage attendees to bring food and drinks to enjoy while a professional guides you through painting your own masterpiece.

No matter how you spend this chilly season, you can’t go wrong with any of these winter activities for seniors. And don’t forget—the beginning of the year is the time to reevaluate your senior health insurance needs. My Senior Health Plan’s Medicare consulting services can help you determine if your current Medicare plan is right for you. Want more information? Get in touch by calling 877.255.6273. Or click here to fill out our contact form. One of our licensed Medicare consulting agents will get in touch with you right away.

image credit: shutterstock/Ground Picture

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Pete Blasi

President/CEO at My Senior Health Plan

Pete Blasi, the driving force behind My Senior Health Plan and the prestigious Financial Grade Senior Consultants, has been at the helm of both since their inception in 2005. Under his leadership, these well-known and respected organizations have thrived to become renowned full-service Medicare consulting and brokerage firms with a nationwide presence.