Rediscovering the Joy of Play

By Annette Gerdes, General Manager, Goderich Place Retirement Residence

Spring is a season of renewal, bursting with fresh energy, warmth, and the promise of brighter days. Just as nature awakens from its winter slumber, so too can we rekindle a sense of playfulness in our lives. Play isn’t just for children—it’s a lifelong necessity that brings joy, keeps us engaged, and even enhances our well-being as we age.

Remembering the Fun of Childhood

Think back to your younger years—perhaps you skipped stones across a pond, built castles in the sand, or laughed uncontrollably at a silly joke. Those carefree moments of play weren’t just enjoyable; they were essential to your development, social connections, and happiness. But who says that sense of fun should fade with age? Seniors, just like children, thrive when they embrace playfulness. It keeps the mind sharp, lifts the spirit, and fosters social bonds.

Why Play Matters at Any Age

Science tells us that engaging in playful activities can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve cognitive function. Laughter and lighthearted activities release endorphins, our body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Whether it’s playing games, sharing jokes, holding a hand or engaging in creative activities, finding joy in the simple things can transform an ordinary day into something special.

Bringing Play into Everyday Life

You don’t need fancy equipment or elaborate plans to embrace play. Here are some fun ways to incorporate it into daily life:

• The Power of Small Delights: Even the simplest things can bring joy—a wind-up toy on the kitchen counter, a funny greeting card, or a playful challenge like balancing a spoon on your nose. Making someone smile, laughing at yourself, playing with grandchild or a pet.

• Outdoor Playtime: Spring’s fresh air and sunshine invite you to move. While I don’t recommend jumping right into skipping with a rope, you can certainly blow bubbles in the garden, fly a kite, or play a lighthearted game of catch with a friend. Walking in the park can become an adventure if you challenge yourself to count the birds you see or spot the first flowers of the season. It could be as simple as watching children having fun.

• Board Games & Brain Teasers: Card games, crossword puzzles, or a friendly round of Scrabble can spark laughter and mental agility. Engaging in games with others strengthens relationships and keeps the mind active. Try an online game or hide and seek with a grandchild.

• Dance Like No One’s Watching: Whether you sway to your favorite old tune in the living room or join a local dance class, moving to music is a wonderful way to play, exercise, and release stress. Get out the old records you once enjoyed or try a new online app such as Spotify.

• Laughter & Lightheartedness: Find humor in everyday moments. Watch a comedy, tell a joke, or share a silly memory with friends. Laughter is one of the simplest and most effective ways to feel young at heart.

Soak Up the Spring Energy

Spring is the perfect time to embrace play. The longer daylight hours and warmer weather offer endless opportunities to step outside, try something new, and indulge in moments of pure joy. Whether it’s as simple as doodling in a notebook, tossing a frisbee, or playing a prank on a friend (a harmless one, of course!), the act of play reminds us that life is meant to be enjoyed.

AS WE STEP INTO SPRING, LET’S CHALLENGE OURSELVES TO EMBRACE FUN IN EVERYDAY LIFE!