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After being stuck indoors for months, most of us are eager to welcome summer. No matter your age, summer offers the chance to socialize and get outside. Research shows that older adults can benefit from spending time in nature and participating in engaging activities. If youâve been stuck in a rut, summer is the perfect time to try something new.
Here are 10 safe (and fun!) activities you can add to your summer bucket list.
If youâre looking to relax, it doesnât get better than a quiet afternoon on the lake. Fishing is the ultimate way to unwind and recenter a weary mind. Beginners and experts alike can benefit from the fresh air, the peacefulness, and the quality time spent with loved ones.
Fishing is something all ages can enjoy, and itâs an excellent activity to share with grandchildren. To avoid scorching temperatures, go in the early hours of the morning or in the evening. And donât forget to pack snacks, water, and sunscreen.
For folks who live close to a lake or river, taking a scenic boat ride is a novel way to spend the day. Research indicates that green and âblueâ spaces (areas with a body of water) have a restorative quality that promotes physical and mental wellbeing. Being on the water offers an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with whatâs really important.
Make a day of it and book a dinner cruise with your loved ones, or rent a boat and have your own personal tour with friends and family.
Looking for a new hobby? Birdwatching offers a host of social, physical, and mental benefits. And itâs more fun than you might think.
The great thing about birdwatching is its accessibilityâanyone can do it, regardless of age or mobility issues. Birdwatching gets you outside and immersed in nature, and it can exercise your mind too. Older adults can sharpen their minds by identifying birds and learning about different species. Plus, joining a birdwatching group is a wonderful way to connect with others.
As far as hobbies go, birdwatching is on the inexpensive side. Beyond an optional set of binoculars and/or a camera, you donât need to purchase a ton of pricey gear to enjoy this pastime. All you really need is patience and the desire to try something new.
Summertime calls for dining in the open air. Pack the cooler and head over to a favorite park, beach, or nature preserve. You can go as simple or as elaborate as you like by sticking with easy sandwiches and veggie sticks or pulling out all the stops with a fully stocked basket complete with sides, desserts, and fancy beverages.
Breezy summer days were made for flying kites. According to Psychology Today, flying a kite is more than just a way to pass the timeâit comes with some considerable health benefits as well.
Kite-flying is a relaxing activity that promotes mindfulness and encourages socialization in the great outdoors. So gather the grandkids and enjoy this simple pastime together.
By midsummer, there are few things as appealing as a dip in the pool. Swimming is an excellent activity for folks of any age and fitness level. This low-impact exercise is easy on the joints, works the entire body, and improves flexibility. Plus, itâs just plain fun.
You donât need to swim fifty laps to reap the benefits of swimming. Just walking through the water can give your body a gentleâbut effectiveâworkout. If you donât have access to your own pool, check out your local community pool. Many community pools organize senior days that cater specifically to older swimmers. You can also sign up for a water aerobics class to take full advantage of this activity.
Many communities offer a weekly outdoor concert series that might interest you and/or your loved ones. Typically, these events take place in the evening, so you wonât need to worry about record-breaking temps. More of a movie fan? See if your community offers an outdoor
film series.
When the summer sun is sweltering, escape the heat by taking things indoors. Visiting a museum is a wonderful way to explore whatever interests you and/or your loved one enjoys, whether itâs art, history, music, or science. Many museums offer free summer activities, too, so make a point of checking out your local establishments. And be on the lookout for senior discounts as well!
âStaycationsâ are all the rage these days, and itâs not hard to see why. No matter where you live, there are probably a number of sites and events in your own backyard that you never knew existed. Explore what your hometown has to offer by visiting a new restaurant, exploring a new neighborhood or park, or joining a guided walking tour.
If your loved one is into antiques, plan a trip to the flea market. You can peruse quirky, vintage finds while soaking up some vitamin D and getting in some extra steps. A win-win any way you look at it.
Staying active and social is important at any age, and at Provision Living, thereâs no shortage of things to do and people to meet. To learn how Provision Living encourages residents to stay socially engaged, speak with a care consultant today.
