Summer is a time of vacations and a time when most people spend a lot of time with their friends and family. However, senior citizens may have trouble keeping up due to decreased mobility and, as a result, feel that they don’t have as many choices when it comes to fun activities. But, this might just be due to a lack of imagination.
In this article, we’re going to present a number of different summer activities that let seniors enjoy the wonderful weather and longer days. Even a cane or wheelchair will not stop you from enjoying some of these activities.
1. Discover the Neighborhood
Ideal for: People living in suburban or urban areas.
You might feel like you know your neighborhood like the back of your hand is common, but this isn’t always true, especially if you live even in a semi-large city. Challenge your assumptions by going out for a walk and explore the area around you. Get a snack from a new store, or stop by for coffee in a cafe you’ve never been to. Meeting the people in the community you live in is also an excellent way to form new friendships.
2. Start a Garden
Ideal for: Nature lovers.
Gardening is productive and offers all sorts of amazing health benefits. (1) Some studies show that as little as 30 minutes spent in your garden each day can reduce your stress levels and improve your general well-being. (2)
Working in your garden can also be quite a cardiovascular exercise when you start to dig, pluck weeds, and plant vegetables. Besides, spending time in the sun is your best source of vitamin D, which helps your skin, bones, and muscles, among others, to stay healthy. (3)
3. Check out a Local Farmer’s Market
Ideal for: People that love fresh organic produce.
If growing food in your own garden is not an option, you can always visit a local farmer’s market and get everything you need there. Just about every city has one of these markets during summer and they’re also excellent places to try and buy different preserves, bakery products, and drinks.
4. Go to a Museum
Ideal for: Those who like art and culture.
Some people don’t like the hot summer months, so visiting a museum is the perfect activity to cool off while enjoying various art. Even a smaller city has at least a couple of museums or galleries, so you can pick based on what you find most interesting. You may also find that some museums offer various workshops.
5. Try Yoga or Tai Chi
Ideal for: Seniors who want to stay active.
An outdoor Yoga or Tai Chi class is a great way to loosen stiff joints and sore muscles while soaking up the sun. You can often attend these classes in your local park and without having to pay anything. Look for these activities on the website of your local Parks and Recreation Department or find local gyms doing special sessions outside.
6. Enjoy a Picnic at the Park
Ideal for: People who are sociable and enjoy outdoor gatherings.
When the weather is good, you can take your lunch to a park and enjoy a picnic with a friend or family, instead of sitting in a restaurant. Not much more than a few blankets and some food and drinks are needed, as well as a shaded spot to settle down — or you could look for park benches.
7. Organize a Book Club
Ideal for: Avid readers.
Some people simply don’t like the heat and summer sun. If that’s your case, organizing a gathering of book lovers once a week or month may be the perfect activity. During meet-ups, members can discuss what they’ve read, offer suggestions, and even share food.
8. Invite Younger Relatives to a Tea Party
Ideal for: Seniors with grandchildren.
Inviting your nephews and nieces or grandchildren to a garden tea party can be a welcome change to the usual activities during summer. Children can take this opportunity to dress up and play, use beautiful tea sets, and taste delicious treats.
9. Exercise at the Swimming Pool
Ideal for: Older people with mobility issues.
If exercise is what you’re after, then swimming is the best option, as it is a low impact activity and can help greatly with joint pain and reduced mobility. Swimming also keeps your heart healthy and is an excellent way to lose excess weight. (4)
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many summer activities for seniors that you can try out. It doesn’t matter whether you like the sun or hate the heat, we believe at least a few of these ideas will help you enjoy the most beautiful time of year.
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