20 Fun Hobbies for Seniors

Think back to a moment when you became completely absorbed in an activity you loved. Maybe it was tending to a garden, cooking a new recipe, or getting lost in the pages of a good book. The feeling of joy your experience in those moments aren’t just enjoyable; they are truly powerful.

Hobbies do more than fill your day. They bring excitement, purpose, and creativity into your life. There have been studies done to show how they can keep your mind active and even improve your happiness and well-being. The National Institute of Aging even says that having a hobby can increase your life expectancy and decrease depression.

Those are some pretty big claims. So, how can having a hobby do all that? Researchers say it’s because it gives you something to look forward to and keeps you active and social. You can read more in our How Learning a New Hobby Can Boost Brain Health blog. 

Here are 20 fun hobbies that can help you be active and connected with others:
 

Hobbies that Promote Creativity:

1. Painting or Drawing - You don’t need to be an expert to start this hobby. Get some paint, coloring pencils, and paper, and get started. Whether you draw simple shapes or paint detailed pictures, it’s a fun way to spend time. Painting and drawing can help you to express yourself and relax. Check out your local art center for inspiration and local classes.
2. Photography - Allows you to see the world in new ways and capture special moments. It encourages you to notice the beauty around you. Taking photos also boosts creativity and can sharpen your focus. You don’t need fancy equipment to get started. Smartphone cameras get better every year; try starting with your phone camera before investing in more expensive camera equipment. You can even take beginning photography classes at a local community college.
3. Crafting - There are many crafting activities that can keep your hands busy and sharpen motor skills. Whether you enjoy knitting, crocheting, woodcrafting, scrapbooking, making jewelry, or other projects, crafting is a great way to express your creativity. It improves hand-eye coordination and reduces anxiety. Plus, you can share your finished creations with loved ones as gifts or sell them on craft sites like Etsy.
4. Playing a Musical Instrument - Playing music can lift your mood and help reduce stress. It’s a great way to express yourself and improve your memory and coordination. Whether you enjoy strumming a guitar, playing the piano, or learning the drums, playing a musical instrument is a fun hobby that stimulates the brain. You can learn how to play your new instrument by finding a local teacher or watching free YouTube music tutorials.
5. Writing - Writing can take many forms, whether you want to write a Great American Novel, create poetry, keep a journal, or share your memoir. It’s a powerful way to sharpen your memory and provides a creative outlet. By writing, you can improve focus and enhance your imagination. Ultimately, it allows you to share your thoughts and stories with others.

Hobbies That Keep You Connected:

1. Volunteering - A fulfilling way to connect with others and help your community. Whether you’re assisting a local charity, mentoring youth, or supporting animal shelters, giving your time can bring joy and a sense of purpose to your life. To get involved, you can directly contact the organization you’re interested in, or explore available opportunities in your area by visiting VolunteerMatch.org.
2. Book Clubs - Reading is not only a great way to keep your brain sharp, but it also helps reduce stress. Joining a book club lets you share your thoughts and ideas with others. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy stories while engaging in conversations with others who have the same interests. You can either create your own book club or look for existing ones at your local library, bookstore, or community center.
3. Travel Groups - It could be a weekend trip or a vacation far away; traveling gives you the opportunity to have new experiences. It keeps you active and lets you see different places and cultures. Travel also helps you expand your tastes buds with new and exotic food. Exploring new places with like-minded companions gets you out of your daily routine and can make life more exciting.
4. Board or Card Games - Getting together with friends to play games is a fun way to keep mentally sharp. Playing board and card games helps with problem-solving skills and memory. Laughing over a game of bridge or a friendly competitive game of chess is also a great way to stay social. 
5. Cooking or Baking Classes - Trying new recipes or baking family favorites is a delicious way to spend time. Cooking helps you keep your mind active by following the steps of a recipe and measuring out ingredients. You can explore different flavors and try new healthy meal options. It’s also a great way to share meals with loved ones.

Hobbies That You Can Do Outdoors:

1. Gardening - Gardening is a fun and healthy way to stay active and connect with nature. As we age, gardening can give us something to look forward to every day. Spending time outside digging in the dirt boosts your mood and lowers anxiety and stress. Plus, you get to grow your own fruits and vegetables. Read our Health Benefits of Gardening for Seniors blog to learn more.

There are studies of the Blue Zone areas of the world, which are locations where people live the longest. Among the Blue Zone areas, there is a common habit of those who live over 100 years old – gardening. Gardening provides a low-impact physical activity that includes a purpose, which is linked to longevity.

2. Hiking - It could be a hike on a gentle trail or an advanced climb to see breathtaking views; both are great ways for you to get outside and keep moving. It improves your heart health and balance and can really improve your mood. Hiking can add a little extra adventure by exploring nature trails and scenic views. You can find a hike that is perfect for any fitness level. You can check GoogleMaps.com and Alltrails.com to find local walking paths and trails in your area that fit your fitness level. 
3. Tai Chi - Whether you do it alone or with a group, Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise that focuses on slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. It’s easy on the joints and helps improve balance and flexibility. One of the best things about Tai Chi is that it can be done outside in a park or backyard. Community centers and martial arts schools are good places to find local Tai Chi classes.
4. Birdwatching - With binoculars and a little curiosity, birdwatching can bring a sense of adventure and a connection to nature. It’s a relaxing outdoor hobby that can improve your focus and patience. It’s a low-impact activity that encourages walking at any fitness level to find different birds. If you’re interested in getting started, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can help you find your birdwatching community. 
5. Fishing - A peaceful way to spend time outdoors around the water. It helps reduce stress and encourages patience and focus. It’s also a good way to stay active by casting a line, reeling in a catch, or simply walking to a favorite fishing spot. Fishing can be enjoyed alone or with others and is a great way to enjoy the fresh air. All you need is a fishing rod and reel, fishing line, bait, and a fishing license.

Hobbies That Help You Be Active:

1. Yoga - A great way to calm the mind and improve flexibility. It increases your balance and strength, all while reducing stress. The gentle movements and deep breathing exercises can ease joint pain. Yoga can be done almost anywhere: at home, in a class, and even a park. You can even do what’s called chair yoga, where you can practice seated poses and stretches. So, no matter your fitness level, you can find the benefits of having yoga as a hobby.
2. Swimming or Water Aerobics - Swimming and water aerobics are great low-impact exercises that’s easy on the joints. The water provides gentle resistance, helping build strength, and improves heart health and flexibility. Water aerobic classes are a fun and social way to get exercise and meet new people.  At Clover Health, we know staying active and being social is important. That’s why all our Medicare Advantage plans offer a fitness benefit at no additional cost, and some of the gyms include a pool and water aerobic classes.
3. Dancing - With so many styles to choose from such as ballroom, salsa, line dancing, or even just freestyle, dancing is a fun way to get moving. It helps improve balance and coordination while also being great exercise. Dancing can boost heart health and improve memory by learning new steps. It’s also a great way to meet people, whether at a dance class or social event. If you want lessons, check with your local dance studio or recreation center to get started.
4. Golf - You could play a full round or just practice at the driving range, either way golf is a fun light exercise. Golf can help improve balance, strength, and coordination. It also helps keep your mind sharp by requiring strategy and concentration. You can find local courses near you online at PGA.com. Walk the course and try swinging that club like Jack Nicklaus; you’ll have a great time and join the millions who made golf their main hobby. 
5. Walking Group - Joining a walking group is a great way to make new friends and stay connected. Most neighborhoods or communities have walking groups, so it could be as easy as signing up or finding a group of friends to walk together. It’s good for heart health and balance. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore local areas with new friends.

No matter your interest, there’s a hobby out there for you. Try something new today and see how it can improve your life and happiness.

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Looking for more lifestyle tips? Explore our latest blogs for practical tips to make healthier choices and get the most from your Medicare benefits. 

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