Title: Participating in Activities You Enjoy | National Institute on Aging
Headings: Participating in Activities You Enjoy
Participating in Activities You Enjoy
June's Story
Benefits of an Active Lifestyle
Melvin and Linn's Story
Activities to Consider
Get Out and About
Learn Something New
Become More Active in Your Community
Maria's Story
Be Physically Active
Ted's Story
Find the Right Balance
For More Information About Participating in Activities

Content: Have a longer lifespan. One study showed that older adults who reported taking part in social activities (such as playing games, belonging to social groups, or traveling) or meaningful, productive activities (such as having a paid or unpaid job, or gardening) lived longer than people who did not. Researchers are further exploring this connection. Are happier and less depressed. Studies suggest that older adults who participate in what they believe are meaningful activities, like volunteering in their communities, say they feel happier and healthier. One study placed older adults from an urban community in their neighborhood public elementary schools to tutor children 15 hours a week. Volunteers reported personal satisfaction from the experience. The researchers found it improved the volunteers’ cognitive and physical health, as well as the children’s school success. Researchers think it might also have long-term benefits, lowering the older adults’ risk of developing disability, dependency, and dementia in later life. Are better prepared to cope with loss.