8x: Why is crafting good for the elderly: Pleasure in life

Crafts with the elderly can be a good way to educate the elderlyto keep them busy in a meaningful way, to maintain their creative skills or give them back in part, to have fun and to bring them together in a group. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to find the right crafts, because it often happens that the elderly have various mental and physical disorders.

Crafts for the elderly are in principle a good measure. It keeps the elderly mentally and physically fit, improves hand-eye coordination, is fun and promotes mutual solidarity. It is not easy to make the right suggestions for crafts with the elderly.

What should I take into accountwith crafting with the elderly?

First of all, it should be taken into account that the mental and physical condition of the elderly can vary greatly. Elderly people with very trembling fingers are no longer able to do craft work that requires a lot of dexterity and uses small parts. It is also hardly possible for these people to cut fine figures or shapes from paper or cardboard with scissors. This work quickly becomes frustrating for these elderly people and their motivation will quickly decrease. Even for people with dementia, complicated craft work is usually more frustration than fun. When crafting with the elderly, it is also important to ensure that this is not the casesliding into the "kindergarten" style. The elderly then have the feeling that they are not being taken seriously and are also quickly frustrated.

Sometimes when crafting with the elderly it can be useful to do something with them that reminds them of the past and that requires skills from their youth. For example, many older women may be inspired by activities involving knitting, crocheting, sewing and working with fabric, felt, leather, etc. Older men often enjoy crafts with wood, stone or metal.

In principle, when doing crafts with the elderly, you should ensure that it is age-appropriate and that it does not overload the elderlyin their mental or physical capabilities, and that crafting is really fun and is not seen as childish occupational therapy. If the elderly feel taken seriously and they are given an activity that is fun and does not overburden them, crafting with the elderly is a very fun activity.

Crafting with the elderly and seniors: What are the options?

We leggen je hier 8 creatieve mogelijkheden uit om te met ouderen, denk hierbij aan knutselen, maar ook aan andere activiteiten.

1. Crafts

You don't need a lot of materials for crafts with adults and the elderly. It is wise to provide a good workspace, so that you can start safely and with concentration. Arrange a large, empty work surface and a bright, well-ventilated room. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Gather tools, such as glue, tape, a pencil and scissors. You also need craft materials. You can find this at home (magazines, egg cartons) or in nature (pine cones, chestnuts).

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2. Sign

You are never too old to learn to draw well. For You can find drawing books on the internet or you can buy a drawing book at the local shops. Drawing is also a very simple hobby: all you need is paper and a few pencils. If you want to take it more seriously, buy some thicker paper or a drawing pad.

3. Paint by Numbers

Also at Paint by Numbers you can express your creativity. Acrylic painting is a very well-known technique, but also consider watercolor painting if you don't have much experience yet, Paint by Numbers for adults and children a huge onefun activity. You paint the boxes with the appropriate colours and you create a beautiful painting.

4. Cooking and baking

The nice thing about cooking and baking activities with seniors is that you are active and that you can enjoy homemade food after you are done. For example, choose a theme day (Mexican, Spanish, French, etc.) so that you can easily coordinate your dishes.

5. Reading and writing

Putting your thoughts on paper can be very soothing. Write in a journal, or start a short story or story. Do you prefer to read and enjoy talking about books? Maybe you can join a book club, or form one yourself. And if reading doesn't work so well anymore, consider an audiobook. Various free podcasts (audiobooks) can be found on the internet. Click on your audiobook and enjoy!

6. Audiobooks

In addition to listening to audio books, many elderly people enjoy listening to their favourite music. It can bring back memories and motivationare for a nice conversation. Organizing a music evening is also a great idea.

7. Knitting, crocheting and embroidery

Knitting, crocheting and embroidery are perhaps the most popular creative activities - especially among seniors and the elderly. It may take some time, but will quickly produce beautiful results. With wool you can quickly make the most beautiful creations from a simple pattern. Visit a stall where they sell wool or order beautiful wool on the internet.

8. Exercise

Sufficient exercise provides enormous health benefits. And did you know that creativity and movement are extremely goodgo together? There are various (sporty) dance steps for the elderly and seniors, such as Zumba.

Frequently asked questions

Why do crafts with the elderly?

What can I do with the elderly?