Summer is here! The sun is out, the air is warm, the big green trees are just waiting to provide shade…everything is vibrant and bright, and all you want to do is get outside and enjoy it. If you’re a senior, you may have to think carefully about how to enjoy these special summer months. But, no matter what your level of activity, here are some ideas that include something for everyone.
Eating Outdoors
Nothing says summertime like a picnic. Pack up a basket or cooler of your favorite sandwiches, snacks and drinks. Don’t forget a lovely blanket to sit on…and head to a charming outdoor spot. Tanglewood Park or Salem Lake are two nearby venues you may want to try. Or, for seniors who may not be as mobile, have a lovely picnic on the back patio or in the yard. Find a spot under a shady tree, and just relax with food, family and lovable furry friends. Make it a day to remember!
Scenic Drives
A scenic drive can be a great way to enjoy the beauty of summer. Whether it’s a drive through the countryside, through a favorite park or along the coast, it’s a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. Plan a route that has plenty of places to stop…like maybe a mom n’ pop vegetable stand or a special place to get ice cream. Then, just enjoy the view. You might want to bring along some of your favorite snacks and drinks, and make sure you have a phone and charger in case you need a GPS!
Gardening
Here’s a great activity for any senior who loves the sun and doesn’t mind getting a little dirty. Whether you’re interested in growing flowers, fruits and vegetables, herbs or all of the above, this is the season to do it. If you’re a beginner (or even if you’ve been gardening your whole life), you might want to check out the Forsyth County Center through the NC Cooperative Extension as they offer gardening classes and other opportunities to get involved with gardening projects. If you’re looking for a great local nursery, check out House of Plants at 507 Harvey Street in Winston-Salem. Their knowledge of plants is unbeatable. Gardening has physical and mental health benefits that help your body and mind. You’ll also get a healthy dose of Vitamin D which boosts the immune system and also lowers blood pressure. Take this opportunity to wear a fabulous gardening hat to protect your face from the sun’s rays and keep you a bit cooler!
Bird Watching
Bird watching is a peaceful and engaging activity that allows seniors to connect with nature. All it requires is a pair of binoculars and a field guide to identify local bird species. Bird watching can be enjoyed from a backyard, a local park or a nature preserve. You might even work a nice picnic lunch into the day. Also, consider setting up bird feeders in the yard to attract birds closer to home.
Swimming
Swimming and water aerobics are excellent low impact activities that are gentle on the joints while providing a full body workout. Many community centers, the YMCA and other senior facilities offer water exercise classes specifically designed for seniors. To prevent slips and falls, it’s a good idea to wear water shoes.
Walking
Walking is a simple and healthy pastime for seniors. It improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and boosts your mood. This free outdoor activity is a great way to appreciate nature. You can go for a walk by yourself for a peaceful moment, or you can get a group of friends to go together and talk about everything under the sun as you go for a leisurely stroll. For safe walking, wear comfortable, supportive shoes, stay hydrated and apply sunscreen. There are wonderful walking paths in our area at parks like Tanglewood, but you may also find it pleasant just to walk around your neighborhood.
Play Outdoor Games
One of the most fun outdoor activities for seniors is playing lawn games. You may have played some of these games when you were a kid, but there are plenty of new lawn games to learn as well. Get a group of friends together for an afternoon of friendly competition.
Bean bag toss, bocce ball, horseshoes and croquet are perfect for seniors as they are low impact and easy to learn. Play on a flat, grassy area to reduce the risk of falls. Also, use brightly colored equipment for better visibility.
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors and engage in activities that can enhance the quality of life for seniors. Staying active and socially engaged is important for mental and physical health, and the warm weather provides ample opportunities to do just that.
