Entertainment in the form of a new or familiar movie can be an enjoyable pastime for people of all ages. In fact, in moderation, television can even provide some benefits, especially for seniors who find comfort in watching their favorite films. For many older adults, watching movies, especially in group settings, can help pass the time, reduce isolation, encourage friendship, inspire emotion and provide a brief mental escape from the outside world.
Let’s face it, getting older comes with a decline in physical and cognitive abilities, making it more and more difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. For this reason, television can be a great source of comfort and stimulation for older adults who have physical limitations. When combined with some form of regular physical activity and planned social events, movie-watching can provide many benefits including:
When helping your loved one select a movie to watch, consider their likes and dislikes. Do they enjoy romance movies, or do they prefer comedies? It is best to avoid movies or shows with extensive violence or tragedy, as this could inspire negative memories or emotions. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, select a shorter film with a simple plot. Lengthy and complex storylines can be confusing for someone with dementia to follow or understand.
Consider compiling a list of films for your loved one to choose from. Many seniors enjoy older, classic movies from the past that bring about old memories and emotional connections.
According to Ranker.com, the following movies are some of the highest ranked on Netflix for older generations.
Add to this list, or create your own list one based on the senior’s personal preferences and interests.
In moderation, movie-watching is an excellent source of entertainment for older adults. Set them up for stress-free streaming by installing easy-to-use streaming services and devices. Many assisted living communities also provide movie-watching opportunities throughout the week.