09/08/2022
To an older adult, A puzzle may NOT be JUST what it looks like on the outside. A puzzle might be something to keep their brain stimulated and growing, it might be something to pass the time that does not require their hips, knees, and shoulders in the same way that golf, walking, or biking used to require. It might be a feeling of accomplishment when they are struggling to do things they used to always do, like laundry or bathing or backgammon or physics. It might bring up a fond memory of a time when they travelled to Italy or used to play hide and seek in their grandparent’s farm yard. To my 91 year old client, I believe that working on a puzzle is some or many of these things. And to me, it may just be some quality time with my partner lot at night to relax with tea. But as a social worker, I see the importance of not negating what hobbies, skills, and abilities an older adult has and uses.
So if you see an older adult in your life engaging in a hobby that you feel like is pointless, maybe take 15 min to try it with them. This connection might be a highlight to their daily puzzle time. It also might assist them in continuing hobbies that stimulate their brains, their joy, their reason to keep moving when their body is not cooperating.
It IS Larger than you think their mental health, physical and cognitive wellness, and spiritual well being.
