There are many different ways to brighten your customer’s day. Often, just your company and a chat will make the world of difference. But if you think the people you help are ready to try something new, have a look at these 10 ideas – one of them might be just the ticket!
- Explore Your Local Area – Travelling and exploring new places gives us the chance to experience new things which invigorate the mind. For your customers, they can achieve the same feeling by exploring locally, especially if they haven’t felt safe to go far during the pandemic. You’ll be able to support them while they rediscover what’s in their local area. When did they last sit by the river? Feed the ducks in the park? Or enjoy an ice cream by the sea? Don’t overlook the things that are right on your doorstep.
- Walking – Walking can help to boost mood, burn calories and keep your heart healthy. If your customer has been inactive for a little while, start slowly and try a 15-minute walk around the block, or to the local shop. If they can manage this OK, build up to a slightly longer walk. If they (and you!) are slightly out of breath, but can still hold a conversation, that’s a good pace, but you may have to build up to this too. And if they get a taste for it, perhaps you could help them to find a local walking group.
- Photography – If your customer fancies trying their hand at photography, there’s no need to buy any fancy equipment. An old digital camera would be perfect, or If they have a smart phone, they can get some great results with a few simple tips and guidance. Help them to focus the shot and use the flash and they’ll be really pleased with the images they take. Why not combine with a little local bird-watching? Try the RSPB for some beginner’s tips.
- Gardening – Gardening has been proven to have positive effects on people’s mental health, mood and even their cognitive functions – the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember. Whether your client is new to gardening or just out of the habit, there are a few things you can do to help make work in their garden a bit less strenuous. If they don’t have a garden, or they can’t move around freely, try growing from seed in pots on a window ledge. Herbs are a good option.
- Board games – Also known to improve memory and cognitive function, playing a board game is a sociable and engaging activity to do together. Jigsaws spring to mind immediately – you can start them together and your client can carry on when they like. But if jigsaws aren’t their thing, or their eyesight is an issue, try Scrabble, Monopoly or even Cluedo.
- Exercise – Advice from the NHS is that older adults should aim to be physically active every day. There are many forms of gentle exercise available which will compliment a good walking routine or help those who are less able to get outside. Joe Wicks has a 10 minute home workout on his You Tube channel, designed for seniors.
- Genealogy – Finding out about your family tree, your ancestors and their lives can be a really rewarding hobby. If this excites your client, help them get started here. No doubt the process will trigger some memories that they can share with you. And they will be excited if they can unearth some secrets they didn’t know before!
- Knitting, sewing or crochet – Could you find a new hobby you can learn together? Knitting, sewing and crochet are all great hobbies because anyone can have a go, no matter what their level. If they already have the skills, maybe they could teach you? Try to find a purpose for their work, like knitting for a great cause. There are lots of charity suggestions here to get you started.
- Painting, Art and craft – Our creative abilities do not necessarily deteriorate with age. If your client used to enjoy painting or drawing, try to reignite that passion – sometimes they just need a bit of inspiration. Whether they are novices or pros, the BBC’s The Big Painting Challenge artist Pascal Anson has recorded a series of 30 minute art tutorials on his YouTube channel. There’s something for everyone in there.
- Cooking – Does your client dread the thought of preparing a meal? Do they see it as a bit of a chore to cook for themselves? Maybe you could cook their evening meal together. For a little nostalgia, start with an old favourite that they haven’t made for a while. Then cook with an ingredient they haven’t tried before. See if there is anything they fancy in Age UK’s selection of delicious, healthy recipes. Exploring new flavours and cuisines together, can invigorate the mind, as much as travel (well, almost).
You will know your customers best, so you’ll have a real gut feel about the kind of activities they will enjoy, and which will be the most suitable for their energy and mobility levels. Some customers will be energised by the thought of trying something new. Others will feel a little daunted. Take it slow and use your instinct. And of course, when they’re ready, be prepared to get stuck in yourself!
If brightening someone’s day whilst having a lovely time yourself sounds like something you’d enjoy, check out my FAB-Senior programme here to see if you could make a great day brightener.
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