Worried about being stuck inside with nothing to do and no entertainment ideas this winter? It’s true that seniors experience less stimulation and activity during the coldest season of the year.
Instead of spending far too many hours on the couch in front of the television this winter, get up and do a winter activity. After all, 55 plus senior living is about celebrating the life that you’ve had, not waiting around hoping the weather gets better.
Studies have found that an active social and physical life can increase longevity and improve health later in life. With that in mind, consider this list of winter activities you can do at home or around the Twin Cities.
Try Your Hand at Crafting
Arts and crafts are a great solo or group winter activity. Whether you just want to keep your hands busy while watching tv or listening to an audiobook, or you want to start a crafting circle, there are lots of options.
Needlepoint, knitting, painting, and holiday crafts are relatively easy to learn even if you don’t have prior experience. Put on some holiday music and invite a few friends over for a knitting party or make gifts for the family.
Catch a Film
Have friends over for a movie night. Pop some popcorn and take in a favorite film together. You can even make it a regular thing and take turns selecting what to watch.
If you’d rather go out, visit one of the many beautiful, historical movie theaters around the Twin Cities.
The Heights
Constructed in 1926 by Gluek Brewery heir Arthur Gluek, the Heights Theatre is a charming neighborhood gem in Columbia Heights.
Enjoy an organ performance on the former WCCO organ from 1929 before your film and a box of old-fashioned popcorn in this darling Beaux-Arts-style theater.
Riverview Theater
Located on 42nd Ave in South Minneapolis, the Riverview Theater offers 21st-century cinematic experiences in a 1950s-style auditorium. They show everything from the biggest Hollywood blockbusters to niche art films.
Saint Anthony Main Theater
Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, the Saint Anthony Main Theater is an idyllic location to take a picturesque walk, grab a bite to eat, and take in a film. Keep in mind you need proof of vaccination to enter.
Visit a Museum
When you’re craving a connection to art and history, plan a visit to one of the Twin Cities’ world-class museums. Carpool with a friend or relative or inquire about outings at your senior living center.
The Minneapolis Art Institute is one of the largest art museums in the country, with 90,000 works of art representing 5,000 years of world history.
You can even make it a dual-purpose trip and bring along the grandkids to see a play at the adjoining Children’s Theater. For modern and contemporary art, check out the Walker Art Center.
Take in a Concert or Show
The Twin Cities boast an abundance of concert venues for every type of entertainment you can think of. Choose from a variety of excellent performance centers like the Ordway, Orchestra Hall, and the Orpheum.
Fans of classical music and opera can check out the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, and the Minnesota Opera. While theatergoers will enjoy the Guthrie, Fitzgerald, and State theaters.
Start a Game Night
Invite friends and neighbors to a game night. You can play board games like Scrabble, Chess, Yahtzee, Boggle, Dominos, Mah Jong, or Monopoly. You can also try an interactive game like a story-go-round or “Would You Rather.”
55-Plus Senior Living Solutions Around the Twin Cities
Winter activities for 55 plus senior living might seem few and far between, but it is important for seniors to socialize and stay active.
If you’re considering senior living, contact us to learn more about Sholom, where care, compassion, and community are our highest values.
