When you were young, did you have a diary? Perhaps you had a friend who wrote in their diary every day. At some point in time, “diary” was changed to “journal”. It may have something to do with age or just a sign of the times. When you think of journaling (writing down or recording things that happen in your life in a notebook, a tablet, etc.), you may automatically picture a very young person or even a teenager. However, at any age, journaling can be advantageous. In fact, in ways you may not realize, it can be particularly beneficial for retirement-age individuals.
Let’s explore the benefits of journaling for your aging loved one.
Fulfillment
It can feel very gratifying to write in your journal every day. Maybe it’s the “seeing a blank canvas come to life” idea. Maybe it’s the rereading of inspirations and feelings that you’ve recorded. Maybe it’s passing on the history of your life to your grandchildren. The point is that if you write in your journal every day, you may enjoy a feeling of fulfillment from the very act.
Boost Creativity
Just because we compare journaling to a diary doesn’t mean you have to restrict it to thoughts that occur to you during the day or details regarding your day-to-day actions. You can also write down recipes you’ve concocted, compile photos, write creatively (poetry, short stories, etc.), and keep track of losses and wins by your favorite team… It’s all up to you.
Keep Your Brain Sharp/Improve Coordination Skills
It’s healthy for your body and mind to use your senses as much as possible. While you’re recording things in your journal, you can feel that pencil in your hand. You might even smell the paper or hear the stroke of the lead as it crosses the paper. You’re putting a lot of thought into what you’re writing.
What’s more, motor skills can be improved/maintained by maneuvering and gripping a writing utensil. If you’re typing on a computer/keyboard, your senses will be stimulated even further.
Relief Stress
Do you have thoughts that overwhelm you at times? Writing them down on paper can help transfer them so they become less stressful. Now, instead of bouncing around inside your head, they’re recorded in your notebook (or wherever you record your journal).
Help Your Memory
Many times, the older you get, the harder it is to remember things. When you write it down, not only will you be able to go back and look at it later, it will actually help you remember what happened. When you are writing things down in your journal, you will think about them more, which helps you remember longer.
Preserve Good Times
You’ll be able to highlight the moments of your life and better preserve your memories with a journal. It’s right there for you to read anytime you want. Keep it private or share it, it’s up to you. If it’s particularly entertaining or full of family history, you may wish to share it with others.
Enjoy Journaling or One of Our Many Activities
When you reside in the retirement community Morada Grand Prairie, you will never lack something to do. With regularly scheduled activities, events, celebrations, and more, if you tire of your journaling for the day, come join everyone in some type of activity.
Some of the scheduled activities that occur on a regular basis include shopping trips, visiting local restaurants, informative lectures, live music performances, movies and TV, and diverse recreation including games, arts and crafts, and more.
