For older adults with CP, participating in leisure and recreation activities should be an important part of their daily life. It can help you to develop new skills, socialise with others and expand your interests. It is also important for improving your quality of life and can contribute to improving your health and fitness levels.

You may be living independently, with family or friends, or in supported accommodation. Whatever your circumstances, participating in leisure and recreation activities with your family, friends or carers can reduce your stress levels, and help you feel connected in the community. This will help prevent the feelings of isolation and loneliness that can sometimes be brought on by the process of ageing.

There are many ways to incorporate leisure and recreation activities into your daily life. If you would like some advice about how to do this, talk to your healthcare team and those around you, about helping you to identify the activities that best suit your particular interests, needs and ability levels.

You may like to see a diversional and recreation therapist, who can create a plan for you that:

• takes into account your interests, hobbies and preferences
• can recommend various activities based on your capacity
• can teach you adaptive strategies
• modifies equipment and procedures to promote inclusion
• expands your social network and friendship group
• enhances your self-confidence.

You could also contact your local council or community organisations for information about the types of group activities that are available.

Some suggestions for activities that you may enjoy include:

• creative arts, such as painting, drama or dance
• listening to music or playing an instrument
• adult education courses
• board games
• yoga and meditation
• adaptive sports – many sports can be adapted for adults with CP, such as gym classes, hiking or swimming and provide a way to socialise, have fun and get active. For example, you could try bowling by using a bowling ball ramp.
• cooking – there are tools such as rocker knives and adaptive cutting boards that help with one-handed cooking, and bench height can be adjusted for use with a wheelchair

Having CP shouldn’t stop you from enjoying leisure and recreation activities as you age. By exploring different activities, experimenting and adjusting things as you need, you’ll find what works for you.