As NRIs, it’s tough seeing elderly parents in India slow down due to age, pain, or isolation. You may feel distant, but staying connected and involved is key to their health. 7 ways to keep elderly parents active and engaged as discussed in our guide on Elder Care at Home for NRIs can make a huge difference in their physical and mental well-being. At Santhosam, we believe in the power of simple, thoughtful actions to ensure seniors live fulfilling, healthy lives, even from afar.
Why It Matters for Your Family
Keeping elderly parents active helps them stay strong and reduces the risk of falls, depression, and diseases like heart issues and dementia. According to the CDC guidelines for older adults, staying active can prevent loneliness and boost mental health. As NRIs, the physical distance between you and your parents can be challenging, but your involvement, even from afar, can make a big impact. Encourage small changes, share ideas, and make it a family effort.
7 Ways to Keep Elderly Parents Active and Engaged
1. Encourage Neighborhood Walks
Suggest a daily walk around local parks or riversides, like Modakkurichi, for fresh air and light exercise. Walking helps improve circulation and mental clarity, all while providing a change of scenery.
2. Join Local Senior Fitness Groups
Many Tamil Nadu panchayats offer fitness programs like chair yoga or laughter therapy. Help your parents sign up for these programs, providing support through UPI for their first month.
3. Arrange Social Meetups with Friends
Combat loneliness by arranging transportation or virtual meetups with their friends. This will help them stay socially active and mentally engaged.
4. Master Video Calls for Family Time
Set up regular video calls via WhatsApp for family chats, games, or even storytime. Virtual face-to-face interaction keeps them connected to family and boosts their mood.
5. Adapt Their Hobbies
Encourage your parents to continue hobbies like knitting, painting, or gardening. Provide tools that make these hobbies easier, like larger crochet hooks or ergonomic garden tools.
6. Introduce Online Clubs and Brain Games
Help them join online groups like Facebook gardening clubs or apps with brain games. Activities such as solving puzzles or playing games help stimulate their minds.
7. Explore Assisted Living Options
If needed, research assisted living homes in India that offer yoga, bhajans, and social activities. You can arrange virtual tours to find options that will provide both care and social engagement.
Empowering Your Parents to Stay Active
By using these 7 ways to keep elderly parents active and engaged, you can help your parents stay healthy, connected, and happy. Whether it’s through walks, video calls, or local fitness groups, small steps can lead to big changes in their lives. At Santhosam, we are committed to supporting NRIs in caring for their aging parents in India. These tips not only improve their physical health but also enhance their emotional well-being. Stay engaged, share ideas, and make sure your parents know that distance will never stop your care.
“Start implementing these tips today to help your parents stay active and engaged. Visit https://parentcareindia.com/ for more resources and support on elderly care”
