Every year, it\u2019s becoming clearer that mental wellbeing matters just as much as physical health. This is especially true for seniors, many of whom face barriers like reduced mobility that make it hard to connect with others or engage in activities that make them happy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s the good news: There are plenty of resources to help seniors stay engaged and happy in and around Alameda. Better yet, many of them have accessibility options specifically for seniors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
From crafting and language classes to a collection of incredibly unique gardens, there\u2019s plenty for Alameda seniors to learn, see and do. Here are some of our favorites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the best ways for seniors to improve their mental wellbeing and avoid cognitive decline is to stay engaged in the world and keep learning new things\u2014and in Alameda, there are plenty of things to see and do right in your own backyard. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019re huge fans of the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA)<\/a>, which hosts educational exhibits on the art, history, culture and natural science of the state of California. Take your loved one for a walk through Bay Area history, admire striking displays by local artists together and take a close-up look at animals of the past and present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n OMCA maintains a busy schedule of cultural events for them to enjoy. The museum hosts a miniature festival each Friday from April to October, complete with food trucks, lawn games and live music. They also bring California visionaries every third Sunday to perform, host enlightening discussions and share big ideas. No matter your age, OMCA always has a way to learn and engage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Spending time in nature has a profound impact on our mental health. People have long known that relaxing outside is good for the soul, and recent research<\/a> bears that out. Just going outside can improve mood, lower stress and improve attention, and getting at least two recreational hours outside a week may result in better mental and physical health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since we\u2019re surrounded by natural wonders and blessed with year-round mild weather, Alameda seniors can enjoy plenty of ways to explore the outside world. One of our favorites is Gardens at Lake Merritt<\/a>, located at Oakland Park, the nation\u2019s first wildlife refuge. Start by taking your loved one for a stroll through the serene beauty of their Japanese and Mediterranean gardens. Then, if they\u2019re game, try taking them to one of the preserve\u2019s more unique spots, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to being a great spot for a day out with your loved one, the Gardens at Lake Merritt are a fantastic resource for gardeners, or anyone with an interest in the natural world. Each individual garden hosts classes where they can learn its unique style of cultivation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hobbies aren\u2019t just a fun way to pass the time, they\u2019re also great for mental health. In fact, one study<\/a> concluded that seniors who engage regularly in a hobby have fewer depressive symptoms and greater happiness than those who don\u2019t. Even better, many hobbies can double as social occasions for even greater benefits. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fortunately, the Mastick Senior Center<\/a> has no shortage of programs and classes to help Alameda seniors engage in hobbies and make friends. This fall, they\u2019re offering arts and crafts lessons like painting, quilting and stained glass, line and square dancing, and a variety of foreign language classes.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to sign up, or if you just have questions about access, call them at (510) 747-7500 during business hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Activities are important, but simple companionship is often the single most important thing for seniors\u2019 mental health. That\u2019s why FirstLight Home Care of Alameda<\/a> offers companion care<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This kind of caregiving ensures your loved one will always have a dedicated friend and helper who keeps them company and makes everyday life easier. Our caregivers can help seniors stay connected to the things that matter by transporting them to social events and helping them navigate everyday tasks with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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Get Support With Companion Care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n