As your loved one grows older, it’s important that they remain active as much as they can. Not only that, engaging in outdoor activities can greatly increase their morale as well as their health. Studies have shown that 80% of seniors have at least one chronic health condition and often this can lead to depression. Getting your loved one outside can combat depression and keep them happy and healthy. Here are just a few suggestions for ways seniors can enjoy the great outdoors.
5 Outdoor Activities for Elderly Adults
1. Take a Walk
As simple as it sounds, a daily walk can have a huge impact on your loved one’s overall health. A routine walk around the neighborhood is a great form of exercise that can increase heart, lung, and joint health. Join your loved one on their walks when you can so they’ll not only be getting exercise, they’ll be getting some stellar company as well.
Aging can be a tough and in some cases lonely process, so anytime you can spend with your senior will greatly help. If you’re really feeling up to it, take them to a local park or hiking trail so they can enjoy the surrounding wilderness while still getting the exercise they need. Also, make sure to pack a safety kit in case of any falls, bug bites, or bee stings.
2. Craft Shows or Flea Markets
If your senior is creative, or even just curious, flea markets and craft shows can be a great way for them to get out of the house. With numerous craft shows, flea markets, and garage sales popping up, especially in the warmer months, these can be great outdoor activities for you and your loved one to enjoy.
It can also be a great learning experience for your crafty senior. Most vendors will love to share tips and tricks of their craft (no pun intended) and will be more than willing to help your senior tackle their next project. Eventually, your loved one might even want to sell their own crafts at a craft show or flea market.
3. Gardening
Many seniors agree that tending to their garden is one of the most satisfying outdoor activities they partake in. There’s nothing like enjoying the fruits of your labor, whether it’s beautiful flowers that blossom in the Spring or an early Fall harvest that will provide meals to come, your senior will enjoy the process of tending to a healthy garden.
Have your senior check with their local garden center to figure out which flowers or produce is best to plant at the time. Also, make sure your loved one is not working too hard in the yard when the temperatures rise. Heat exhaustion can creep up on the elderly and can be very dangerous.
4. Metal Detecting
Although it sounds like a peculiar hobby, metal detecting has actually become one of the most popular outdoor activities among seniors. With starter metal detectors starting around $60, this relatively cheap hobby can help your loved one remain active as they age.
Your senior can take it to the beach, park, and even around the neighborhood as they look for local treasures. Although most only discover some loose change and scrap metal, it’s always possible they’ll find a little extra retirement buried in their backyard.
5. Fishing
If your senior is looking for a more relaxing outdoor activity, fishing is a great way to enjoy the fresh air while still enjoying relaxation. Many elders love nothing more than sitting by the local fishing hole with a cold drink and some good company. Fortunately, seniors can also get discounted fishing licenses so they can enjoy as much time on the water as possible.
As your senior ages, remember that they need to spend time outside to take care of their physical and mental health. These are just a few helpful suggestions but there are plenty of outdoor activities your loved one can partake in.
