Woodworking and Seniors

Often, the focus on elderly care facilities is looking after the basic needs of senior men and women, which for the most part are shelter, food and comfort. But there’s another important facet of care that should be given equal attention, which are recreational activities. The options for our seniors are not in any way wanting, but woodworking may just be among the best hobbies out there. It addresses many issues that come with aging, and also keep them healthy and happy.

There are many benefits that could be used to justify in starting a workshop in a care facility. One that may prove compelling to care professionals is that woodworking can delay the onset of cognitive impairment. A study conducted by Mayo Clinic in 2015 found that engaging in artistic activities can decrease the chances of mild cognitive problems in as high as 73%, regardless of when they started with the hobby. For those practicing crafts, a category that woodworking falls under, it is still significantly high at 45%. This is especially encouraging, since memory problems could eventually lead to dementia.

Another advantage to woodworking is that it is an activity that could help promote physical activity. Seniors are already limited in what they could do because their bodies cannot handle as much stress once they age. But it does not hurt to have them flex muscles or do some light lifting, especially when it could use up some calories. It is important to point out though that adequate supervision should be present at a workshop because it will have participating elders handle tools. While some may be long adept in the craft, it is just natural to expect that there will be seniors who will find woodworking as a new interest and therefore need some time before they become more used to handling the equipment.

At a personal level, creating something out of nothing can do wonders for a senior’s mental state. Seniors reported feeling pride and having a greater sense of purpose after finishing a piece of furniture. For others, it teaches patience, the value of taking things one at a time, and even leads to the realization that creativity is not lost in age. Being useful with their hands and tools could also encourage generosity. Some make gifts out of wood, and others are motivated to help out in community projects that require the skill.

This leads to the final benefit: workshops foster social inclusiveness. When taking care of elders’ basic needs and prioritizing each individual, it can be easy to forget what is to be gained by bringing them together. Isolation is a growing problem among seniors, especially with the losses that come with aging. Woodworking can be done alone, and with the aid of the internet, seniors can learn them online. But encouraging them to attend workshops personally alongside others can alleviate loneliness and promote active and happy social lives. Other elderly facilities even come up with group projects for the benefit of the community to build camaraderie.

Robert Johnson: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it