Getting older isn’t the easiest, and it doesn’t make life any easier when you have a disability that prevents you from getting out in the world or interacting with people. But staying inside all day can be detrimental to your mental health as well, which is why we’ve made this list of fun indoor activities that are great for adults with disabilities.
If you’re living with a disability that makes it harder for you to move around, then indoor activities might actually be easier on your body than outdoor activities. You don’t have to worry about uneven ground or uneven surfaces that might make it easier for you to trip and fall—and if you do fall, it’s much easier to get back up again. Indoor activities are often more accessible for people with disabilities because they allow for movement in any direction without worrying about the terrain or the weather.
You can spend time doing things like watching TV shows and movies at home, but there’s something special about being able to enjoy these same entertainment options in an environment where you don’t have to worry about other people watching. It’s true that many venues have wheelchair-accessible seating areas and ramps, but they’re not always as easily accessible as they should be. With an indoor activity, though, you’ll always have privacy and independence.
Exercise is important for everyone, and this becomes especially true as we get older. Although we may feel most comfortable exercising at the gym, it is often difficult for those with disabilities to find gyms that are equipped with facilities for the disabled. If this is the case, consider exercising at home. There are many exercise routines available online that can be done from your living room or bedroom. This can be as simple as doing a few stretches while watching TV or a more involved yoga routine that focuses on strength building and balance.
Another great way to pass time indoors is to read a book. The library has many books available on a wide variety of subjects, but if this proves too difficult to navigate, go online and check out books to download onto your smartphone. If you do not have access to the internet, ask someone else to download the books for you so you can read them on your phone.
- Play video games
There’s nothing like taking on a new persona and being able to do things you couldn’t do otherwise. And if you’re worried about how much time you can spend playing, don’t be! Virtual reality setups allow you to take breaks whenever it’s convenient for you.
- Cook
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a new recipe and make something delicious for yourself. And if cooking is scary or overwhelming, try baking instead—you can get just as creative without worrying about cutting yourself or using the wrong temperature setting on the stove.
- Read books
Reading not only helps keep your mind sharp, but it can also help you become more knowledgeable about things that interest you and even stave off depression by distracting yourself from your worries and concerns. Plus, reading fiction has been linked with improved empathy skills in adults with disabilities.
- Playing Music
Playing music is a great way to increase socialization and community engagement. People with disabilities can use music to express themselves and connect with people around them.
- Participating in a Book Club
Adults with disabilities can join book clubs for readers of all ages and abilities. Reading books together is a great way to improve communication skills, encourage creativity, and promote social interaction.
- Playing Board Games
Board games are not only fun for adults but kids too! You can play them alone or invite others over so everyone has someone else to talk about what they’re doing while playing the game (and maybe even make new friends!).
- Painting
Painting is an excellent creative outlet for adults with disabilities. Painting can be done in many different ways, including using paint brushes or fingers, creating oil paintings or watercolor paintings, and painting on canvas or other materials like paper or wood. It’s important that each adult has access to a wide range of materials so they can choose what they would like to paint on and with which method they would like to use.
- Puzzles
Puzzles are another activity that’s good for individuals and groups alike. Jigsaw puzzles come in all sizes and difficulty levels; again, find one that suits your needs and abilities.