When people are 70 years old or older, most of them look for a pastime that helps them be active, happy, and connected to others. And which pastime is the most recommended for the age? Collecting! Even though it might seem like a simple activity, collecting has many benefits for the body, mind and social life.
People can collect so many things: from ancient clocks, porcelain vases, coins, old books, artwork, jewelry, or even vintage magazines. No matter what to collect, the most important thing is that each piece has a story and makes us feel curious about it. This is why collecting is a pastime that combines history, creativity, and learning; plus it helps elderly people stay mentally active and emotionally happy. So, let’s see the advantages of this pastime.
Body in movement
Collecting doesn’t mean just keeping stuff. Most of the time, those who start this pastime go out to look for objects at flea markets, garage sales, or antique shops. These outings involve walking and moving around, which helps with balance, coordination, and overall physical activity.
Even when they are at home, cleaning, organizing, or restoring items from their collections they can stay active and improve fine monitor skills.
Stronger mind and memory
Another benefit of this pastime is brain stimulation. Every time someone researches the history of an object, where it comes from, or learns about art or the time it belongs to; their mind is active. These activities help strengthen memory and prevent cognitive deterioration. What’s more, objects related to past moments or personal memories can bring positive emotions and be used as a topic of conversation.
Socialize
Collecting can be also helpful to know new people. Talking about collections with friends, neighbors, or family members creates links and generates interesting conversations. Also, going to antique fairs, joining collector clubs, or attending local auctions creates even more chances to socialize. In retirement communities, group collecting projects or restoration activities can reduce loneliness and give residents something exciting to look forward to each week.
Creativity
This pastime allows you to express yourself in an active way. Deciding which object you are going to keep, how to display it, or how to restore them activates your imagination. Many elderly people enjoy decorating their spaces with their collections or showing their items during community events. This activity is more than a personal satisfaction, it’s a happy moment for those who observe and listen to the stories behind each object.
Purpose and pride
Every item of a collection has a story. Collecting those items and giving them a special place makes people feel they are building something meaningful. For many elderly people, their collections represent a significant part of their lives and become a way of leaving their legacy.
How to start this pastime
As you can see, starting to collect is not difficult. You just have to choose the day you go out and find your collection. No matter what you want to collect, what you should have in mind is the budget and where to place the items. After that, you should be ready to meet new people who share some of your interests. For example, you can join local collector groups or online communities where you can learn from others, share tips, and even trade or sell items safely.
You may have heard people saying that collecting is useless, but it is much more than gathering objects. It’s a pastime that keeps the body active, the mind alert, and the heart connected. Are you willing to have a go at this pastime? I’m sure you will enjoy it a lot and you will make the most of it.