“Use the skills that I have got. Do not focus on what I have not. Of course, I am aware of my limitation. Yet, I am a part of God’s wonderful creation. “This is a quote by William E. Lightbourne, and one that resides close to our hearts here at Provident Life.
Children and adults with developmental disabilities often find themselves limited by their condition, but that can be easily overcome if we focus on what they CAN do rather than what they cannot. After all, everyone has a different set of skills – and some of these skills may not even be obvious. When adults with developmental disabilities are given the chance to develop their own talents and utilize them, they can truly shine!
In this article, we’ll be exploring five activities that adults with developmental disabilities can participate in to enjoy a richer, more fulfilling life.
5 Activities for Adults With Intellectual Disabilities
#1 Painting
One activity that those with developmental disabilities enjoy is painting. This can be done either with acrylics or watercolors, and it’s a great way to thrive in artistic expression. In addition, painting can be a great way to de-stress, and it’s also a wonderful opportunity for self-discovery.
When painting with someone who has developmental disabilities, it’s important to keep the following in mind:
● Use simple language that is easy to understand.
● Allow plenty of time for breaks and discussion.
● Provide positive reinforcement often.
● Avoid criticizing their work.
#2 Gardening
Another popular hobby is gardening. Not only does this allow adults with developmental disabilities to enjoy the benefits of working outdoors, but it also gives them an opportunity to interact with plants and flowers in a natural setting. There are many therapeutic benefits that come from being around nature – just think about how much better you feel after spending time at the beach or in the woods!
While gardening is an activity that adults with developmental disabilities can enjoy, there are a few things to remember:
● Be patient. This takes time and practice! Proceed at their pace, but also remember that progress will come over time. Be sure not to push too hard, or you could damage their self-esteem.
● Start with plants that are easy to grow and care for. You don’t want them to get overwhelmed or discouraged.
● Ensure the garden is accessible, with plenty of space for wheelchairs if necessary.
● Be sure to keep the garden weeded and clean. This will help them feel proud of their progress, and it’ll also make for a healthy growing environment in general!
#3 Music
Music is a powerful form of expression, and people of all ages can enjoy it. It’s also a great way to connect with others, which is why it’s such a popular hobby among adults looking for a way to socialize. In addition, music has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory recall in those with developmental disabilities.
For those with developmental delays, music can be a way to open up and share their feelings. It can also be a tool for self-expression and creativity. Music has many therapeutic benefits, including:
● Reducing stress and anxiety levels.
● Improving moods.
● Helping to manage negative emotions.
● Encouraging physical activity and socialization.
If you’re looking for a way to get your loved one into music, try the following:
● Find an instrument that they are interested in. This could be anything from drums to guitar, and there are many options out there to choose from.
● Start off by learning basic songs together. You don’t need to be a musician yourself; you can find many beginner songs online.
● Encourage them to sing along and make up their own lyrics.
#4 Sports Activities
Hobbies are an excellent way for adults with developmental disabilities to engage in the community and make friends. However, you also want to make sure that they are active and getting plenty of exercise. One great way for adults with developmental disabilities to get physical is by participating in sports activities!
There are many different kinds of sports that can be enjoyed by people who have developmental disabilities—from basketball or bowling to tennis or soccer. If your loved one has developmental disabilities, it’s crucial to find a sport that they will enjoy, and one where their disability won’t be an obstacle.
Check with your local recreation center or disability services organization to find sports activities that are available in your area. You can also search online for disability-specific sports programs.
#5 Gaming
While video games are often thought of as an activity that children enjoy, there are plenty of adults who choose to play them too. Not only is it a fun way for them to connect with others online, but it can also be helpful for developing cognitive skills and improving reaction time. Just make sure they don’t spend all their time in front of the screen!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, one in four people have a disability. Gaming allows many of them to do things in a virtual space they could only dream of in reality.
If you’re looking for a good video game to play with your loved one, try something that is age-appropriate and cognitively stimulating. Some popular options include puzzles games, word games, and strategy games. You can also find many disability-specific video games that have been explicitly designed to help people develop their cognitive and social skills.
Final Thoughts
While there are many activities that adults with developmental disabilities can enjoy, the five listed here should give you a good starting point. Be sure to try out different things and find what works best for your loved one!
If you’re looking for a way to get your loved one more involved in the community, consider group homes. These are residential facilities where adults with developmental disabilities can live together and participate in social activities.
Contact us at Provident Life today to learn more about group homes and other housing options for adults with developmental disabilities. We are committed to assisting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, complete, and rewarding lives. Our goal is to supply the assistance our residents need to reach their goals, dreams, and desires.