In this article:

A huge list of activity ideas for older Australians — sorted by interest and ability — with simple tips to make each activity safer, easier and more enjoyable at home or out and about.
Staying active in later life is about more than keeping busy — it supports wellbeing, confidence, connection and independence. Whether you’re looking for gentle activities at home, ideas to get out in the community, or meaningful moments for someone living with dementia, this guide shares practical, Australian-friendly options you can tailor to interests, energy levels and mobility.

Staying active in later life isn’t about “keeping busy” for the sake of it. The right activities can support mobility, confidence, mood, memory, connection and day-to-day independence. 

Whether you’re choosing activities for yourself, supporting a parent, or seeking meaningful ideas for someone living with dementia, this guide offers practical options you can tailor to interests and abilities.

If you’d like support to keep living well at home, explore our aged care services, learn about the Support at Home program, or organise flexible private care. You can also find your local Just Better Care office for guidance in your area.

Contents

Quick tips for choosing the right activity

  • Start with interests: music, sport, nature, food, creativity, learning, faith, family, and community.
  • Match energy levels: short bursts can be better than long sessions.
  • Make it achievable: adapt the activity so it feels successful, not stressful.
  • Build routine: a regular time each day or week helps make activities stick.
  • Think safety: consider hydration, sun protection, safe footwear and trip hazards.
  • Keep choice central: offer options, not pressure — independence matters.

Solo activities

Solo activities can be relaxing, confidence-building and a great way to enjoy quiet time or explore a new interest.

Try a new hobby (or rediscover an old one)

  • Knitting, crochet or simple sewing
  • Jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, word searches or Sudoku
  • Model kits, birdwatching, or collecting and organising photos
  • Learning a musical instrument (even basic keyboard apps)
  • Gardening in pots, herbs on a windowsill, or indoor plants

Reading and audiobooks

  • Visit the local library or use large-print books
  • Try audiobooks or podcasts for a low-effort, high-enjoyment option
  • Join a book club for a blend of solo reading and social connection

Self-care and wellbeing

  • Gentle stretching, breathing exercises, or a short mindfulness practice
  • Simple skincare routine, hand massage, or a warm foot soak
  • Listening to favourite music playlists or radio programs

Indoor activities

Indoor activities are ideal when the weather turns or when energy levels are lower.

Brain and memory activities

  • Trivia, quizzes, and “name that tune”
  • Sorting tasks: buttons, coins, photos, recipe cards
  • Simple journalling, gratitude lists, or writing letters
  • Learning apps (language basics, geography, history)

Cooking and baking

  • Try a “recipe of the week” and build a personal cookbook folder
  • Bake easy favourites like scones, muffins or ANZAC biscuits
  • Host a small tasting at home (tea, fruit platter, cheese board)

Music, movies and storytelling

  • Create a “life soundtrack” playlist and share the stories behind songs
  • Watch classic films or documentaries and chat afterwards
  • Record family stories (audio notes are perfect)

Outdoor activities

Fresh air, gentle movement and a change of scenery can do wonders — even for a short time.

Easy outdoor options

  • A stroll in the park, along a beach path, or around the block
  • Outdoor café catch-ups or a picnic with family
  • Community gardens, nurseries and farmers’ markets
  • Photography walks (phone camera is enough)

Day trips and local outings

  • Scenic drives with a planned rest stop and toilet access
  • Art galleries, museums and local exhibitions
  • Botanic gardens and accessible nature trails
  • Community events, shows, and daytime concerts

Tip: If getting out is harder due to transport or mobility, a Support Worker can help with planning, safe transfers, and companionship.

Activities for limited mobility

Limited mobility doesn’t mean limited enjoyment. Small adaptations can make a big difference.

Seated and low-impact activity ideas

  • Chair yoga, chair tai chi, or gentle stretching
  • Balloon volleyball or soft ball toss (great for coordination)
  • Simple hand exercises with therapy putty or stress balls
  • Indoor gardening: potting, pruning, propagating
  • Arts and crafts at a comfortable table height

Purposeful activities (with a sense of achievement)

  • Folding laundry, sorting pantry items, and setting the table
  • Polishing cutlery or wiping benches (if safe and preferred)
  • Helping plan meals or creating a shopping list

Meal Preparation Support at Home

Enjoying nutritious, home-style meals shouldn’t be a chore. Our meal preparation support helps you or your loved one plan, prepare and enjoy balanced meals that suit tastes, dietary needs and cultural preferences — right in the comfort of home.

 Learn more about our meal preparation support 

 Get started 

Relaxing and calming activities

Calming activities can support sleep, reduce stress, and create a soothing rhythm to the day.

  • Guided relaxation or breathing exercises
  • Hand massage, aromatherapy (if suitable), or a warm drink ritual
  • Gentle gardening, watering plants, or sitting outdoors in the shade
  • Simple crafts like colouring-in, painting, or collaging
  • Listening to music, nature sounds, or audio stories

Gentle exercise activities

Regular movement helps maintain strength, balance and confidence. Choose activities that feel safe and enjoyable.

Gentle exercise options

  • Walking groups (short routes with rest points)
  • Swimming or aqua exercise (great for joints)
  • Gentle yoga or tai chi classes
  • Light resistance exercises with bands (guided by a professional)
  • Balance practice: heel-to-toe walk near a stable bench or rail

Safety note: If falls risk is a concern, focus on supervised or supported exercise and consider a home safety check.

Activities for vision changes

Vision changes are common as we age. The right setup can make activities easier and more enjoyable.

Vision-friendly activity ideas

  • Audiobooks, podcasts and radio programs
  • Large-print puzzles, cards and books
  • Music (sing-alongs, playlists, simple instruments)
  • Tactile crafts: knitting, textured collage, clay work
  • Cooking with high-contrast utensils and good lighting

Simple adjustments

  • Use brighter lighting (especially over tables)
  • Increase screen text size on phones and tablets
  • Choose high-contrast colours (dark mat under light objects)
  • Reduce clutter to make spaces easier to navigate

Dementia-friendly activity ideas

The best activities for people living with dementia are often familiar, sensory, and success-focused. Aim for calm engagement rather than “getting it right”, and keep the person’s preferences central.

Meaningful, familiar activities

  • Music from earlier life (and gentlesing-alongss)
  • Folding towels, sorting socks, setting the table
  • Looking through photo albums and sharing stories
  • Gardening tasks like watering, picking herbs, or potting
  • Simple cooking steps: mixing, stirring, shaping dough

Sensory activities

  • Hand massage with a preferred lotion (if suitable)
  • Textured items: fabric squares, sensory blankets, soft pom-poms
  • Aromas: herbs, citrus, baked goods (avoid anything irritating)
  • Nature time: sitting in the garden, birdwatching, sunshine in shade

Dementia & Alzheimer’s support at home

Dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease) can change everyday routines — but with the right, consistent support, many people can continue living safely and comfortably at home. Our in-home care is tailored to the person’s needs and preferences, helping maintain independence, reduce stress, and support families and carers.

 Learn more about dementia home care 

 Get started 

Creative and craft activities

Creative activities support mood, dexterity and a sense of purpose — and you don’t need to be “artistic” to enjoy them.

  • Painting, watercolour or simple drawing
  • Collage with magazines and photos
  • Scrapbooking and memory books
  • Card-making for birthdays and special occasions
  • Simple sewing repairs or small craft kits

Social and group activities

Connection supportwell-beingng. The best social activities are regular, welcoming and aligned to personal interests.

Community and group ideas

  • Community centre programs and daytime groups
  • RSL, bowls, golf or local interest clubs
  • Men’s sheds, craft circles, or gardening groups
  • Neighbourhood walking groups or gentle exercise classes
  • Volunteering (op shops, community gardens, events)
  • Short courses at local TAFE or community education providers

Family and friends activities

  • Weekly lunch or afternoon tea
  • Board game night (short and simple is fine)
  • Cooking together: one dish, one role each
  • Grandkids craft time or backyard games

Social & Community Support

Staying connected with community, friends and activities can boost wellbeing, confidence and quality of life. Our social and community support services help you stay engaged, attend local groups, and enjoy outings that matter most to you — with support tailored to your preferences and pace.

 Learn more about social and community support 

 Get started 

Games and puzzles

Games are a fun way to support thinking skills, coordination and social connection.

Classic favourites

  • Bingo, cards, dominoes or Rummikub
  • Jigsaw puzzles (choose piece size to suit)
  • Trivia games and “guess the song”
  • Chess, checkers, or simple board games

Digital games (if preferred)

  • Word games, puzzles and brain-training apps
  • Video calls with family (a social “game” in itself)
  • Online interest groups (gardening, sport, history)

How in-home support can help you keep doing what you love

Sometimes the barrier isn’t interest — it’s energy, mobility, transport, confidence, or day-to-day tasks that make it harder to start activities. With the right support, many people can keep enjoying meaningful routines and stay connected tothe community.

  • Companionship: someone to do activities with, at home or out
  • Transport and outings: getting to appointments, groups and community events
  • Support with daily tasks: so there’s more time and energy for enjoyable activities
  • Confidence and safety: gentle supervision, mobility support and fall-prevention habits
  • Tailored routines: activities matched to preferences, goals and changing needs

Explore more aged care support options

Learn more about our aged care services, the Support at Home program, or flexible private care. To speak with a local team, find a location near you.

Ready to get started?

If you’d like support to stay active, independent and connected at home, we’re here to help. Please tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll guide you to the right options.

 Get started 

Prefer to speak to someone local? Visit our locations page to contact your nearest office.

Frequently Asked Questions

What support is available to help older Australians stay independent at home?

There are a range of options available depending on your needs and eligibility. Just Better Care provides personalised aged care services including help with daily tasks, personal care, meal preparation, transport and social support. We focus on practical support that helps you stay safe, confident and independent in your own home.

What is the Support at Home program?

The Support at Home program is a government-funded initiative that helps eligible older Australians access services to live well at home. Funding can be used for personal care, domestic assistance, allied health, equipment and more. Our team can guide you through eligibility, assessments and how to make the most of your funding.

Can I organise care privately without government funding?

Yes. If you would prefer not to wait for funding approval, or if you need additional support, our flexible private care services allow you to arrange support straight away. Services can be tailored to your schedule and adjusted as your needs change.

Do you provide support for people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?

Yes. We offer specialised dementia home care designed to provide calm, consistent and person-centred support. Our approach focuses on maintaining routines, supporting meaningful activities and helping families feel reassured and informed.

Can you help with social and community participation?

Absolutely. Staying connected plays an important role in wellbeing. Our social and community support services can assist with transport, companionship and attending activities or appointments, helping you stay engaged in the community in a way that suits you.

How do I find Just Better Care services near me?

Just Better Care has locally owned and operated offices across Australia. You can find your nearest location here to speak with a local team about your situation. We take the time to understand your goals and develop a support plan that reflects your preferences and lifestyle.

How quickly can services start?

Timeframes depend on your circumstances and whether you are accessing government funding. Private services can often begin quickly, while funded services may require an assessment first. Contact your local office to discuss your needs and the next steps.

Is support personalised to individual needs?

Yes. Every person is different. Our care plans are tailored around your goals, health needs, cultural preferences and daily routines. We prioritise dignity, choice and independence in everything we do.