Are you looking for a hobby that can improve your mood, ease pain, and help prevent dementia? A recent study found that knitting has more physical and mental benefits than you may have previously thought. Besides being a stress reliever, knitting can also help with arthritis, memory, and depression. [1] It’s no secret that hobbies have a positive impact on your mood but having these additional health benefits might make you want to seriously consider adding it to your daily life.
Knitting is gaining popularity in all age groups, with a resurgent interest in do-it-yourself projects and crafts. This form of needlework involves small, repetitive motions that produce a calming effect. It also is easy to fix mistakes you may make along the way, making it especially stress-free. For Riddle Village resident Eileen Farrell, it is the feeling of pride in the work she is doing that she enjoys the most.
Knitting Is Useful and Productive
“It makes me feel good to produce something that’s usable for other people,” Mrs. Farrell said. “It makes me feel productive and useful, particularly while I’m watching TV. I feel as if I’m turning the time into something more positive.”
While everyone can relate to the feeling of pride after finishing a project, some of the other positive effects of knitting are more specific to seniors. Research from The Mayo Clinic found that crafting, including needlework, is a cognitive exercise that may reduce Alzheimer’s risk by 30-50% partly because learning new techniques and practicing hand-eye coordination can help to build up neural networks. [2] Knitting has also been found to prevent arthritis and improve dexterity in your hands. [3] Additionally, occupying your mind and relieving stress through activities like knitting can also lower blood pressure.
Knitting Gives A Sense of Purpose
Aside from the physical health benefits, knitting can be a great way to provide seniors with a more positive daily life. From the sense of purpose, it can bring to the motivating quality that comes with completing a project, knitting has been known to help combat depression. It can also help with other common issues that retirees face, like isolation and lack of energy. In a community like Riddle Village, having a Needlework Club that meets monthly is a great way to encourage residents to keep up with this hobby. By getting out of their apartment, meeting with friends, and having a passion for a project, residents have a fun way to stay active. Mrs. Farrell says the club is also a way to learn more about knitting or even try it for the first time.
“We share tips. You can get lessons and ask for advice solving problems with your knitting,” Mrs. Farrell says of the Needlework Club. “I think any effort helps with your health and improves your mental outlook.”
It’s A Good Time To Get Started
It doesn’t matter if you are new to knitting or an experienced veteran. It can be a great and simple way to keep busy. For seniors, whether you need a distraction from challenges like chronic pain or anxiety, or if you are looking to learn something new and inspire yourself, knitting is the hobby you may want to consider. While knitting cannot cure any diseases or fully prevent you from getting sick, having a daily activity that can improve your mood is one of the best ways to spend your retirement years.
Riddle Village Retirement Community offers an independent lifestyle like no other including many amenities. Contact our team or give us a call at 610-891-3700 today to learn more about everything Riddle Village has to offer.