Exploring Fun Activities After A Stroke or TBI

After a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI), people often need to relearn how to do a number of activities. While rehab mainly focuses on getting better physically and mentally, it's also important to think about doing things that make life enjoyable. This can help in many ways, like making a person feel happier and more connected with others.

Why Fun Activities Matter

After a stroke or TBI, it can be hard to do things that were once enjoyed. This is because these injuries can make it tough to move, think, or handle emotions. Not being able to do fun things can make a person feel lonely and like they've lost a part of themself. Trying new things or finding new ways to enjoy old hobbies can help a person feel better and bring joy back into their life. It is important to start slow, adjust activities, set goals and ask for help.  Starting with activities that are easy and fun can help build confidence to try things that are a bit more challenging. If an activity feels too hard, finding a way to make it simpler can help. Setting goals can provide motivation, and even small achievements should be celebrated. Talking to doctors, therapists, or groups that can offer support can also be helpful when trying new activities.

Here are some activities that are good for adults in this situation. 

1.    Walking in Nature: Being outside can help a person feel calm, relaxed, happier, and less stressed.

2.    Art: Doing creative things like painting, drawing, or making things can help a person think better, improve how well they move, and let them express themself. Joining an art class near or being creative at home is a great start!

3.    Music: Listening to music or playing a musical instrument can be really calming and good for a person after a stroke or TBI. Music can make someone feel happier, helps the brain work better, and help a person communicate better. Try making a playlist of favorite songs.

4.    Gardening: Taking care of a garden can be a fun and calming activity. Spending time with nature, getting some exercise, and enjoying watching the flowers grow can be healing.

5.    Sharpening The Mind: Doing different activities can make the brain work better (i.e., puzzles, art, and music) can be fun ways to boost a person’s memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.

6.    Mindful Moments: Doing things like yoga, meditation, or tai chi can help a person feel less stressed, concentrate better, and feel more relaxed.

7.    Fun with Friends: Being around friends and family is good for people who have had a stroke or TBI. It is important to plan fun things to do with loved ones, such as, picnics, going for coffee, or watching a movie.

8.    Sports for Everyone: Look for local groups or clubs that offer sports programs for people with disabilities can be a great way to stay active.

9.    Cooking and Baking: Trying new recipes and ways of cooking can be fun and make a person feel good. It can help a person think better, use their hands, and be helpful in the kitchen.

It's important to try new things and change up old hobbies to help your body, mind, feelings, and social life. Starting slowly, making changes, setting goals, and getting help are important parts of this process. By doing fun things and being open to new experiences, a person can find happiness and satisfaction in life after being hurt. If you or anyone you know is having a difficult time getting back to finding activities that bring joy, occupational therapy can help. Learn more about how occupational therapy helps people return to their favorite activities and contact us today!

Guest Blogger: Rachel Delman, OTD, OTR/L

 

References:

Trevorrow S, Gustafsson L, Hodson T. (2024). Leisure engagement among people living with acquired brain injury: A scoping review. OTJR: Occupational Therapy Journal of Research, 44(2), 263-277. doi:10.1177/15394492231221962

https://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/PMR/LeisureAfterDischarge.pdf

Carbonneau H, Martineau É, Andre M, Dawson D. (2011). enhancing leisure experiences post traumatic brain injury: A pilot study. Brain Impairment, 12(2), 140-151. doi:10.1375/brim.12.2.140