Ten Summer Activities for Seniors

The summer season has officially arrived. This means lots of great opportunities to spend some time outdoors. If you are in your senior years, you are most likely looking to enjoy the warmer weather a little differently than you used to. Here are ten summer activities ideas for seniors to spend with their relatives or friends:

Have a picnic

Pack a healthy lunch or snack and a comfy blanket to sit on. Bring along a flying disc and a ball to play catch.

Watch a Movie at a Drive-In Theater

Believe it or not, these still exist! Many theaters offer back-to-back features.

Catch Some Sun at the Park or Beach

Many parks offer free concerts or movies in the evening. Be sure to properly be prepared if you are spending a long time out in the sun and heat.*

Stay in Shape

Summer is the perfect time for exercising outdoors, and there are numerous options available that are suitable for seniors. Stay away from any outdoor fitness class with “boot camp” in its name, as these types of classes tend to be incredibly challenging. Instead, look for outdoor tai chi or yoga classes. These types of exercises are great for seniors and can help you stay limber and agile as you age. The more committed you are to maintaining your health in your golden years, the longer and more enjoyable your life will be.

Volunteer

Giving back to the community always makes one feel good. Many local non-profits and charity organizations are in need of volunteers. Local libraries often are in need of volunteers to read at Children’s Story Time. Talk with family and friends about the possibility of volunteering together.

Bird Watching

Investing in a bird feeder and/or birdbath can provide opportunities to watch birds from the comfort of your home. Keeping the bath full of water and the feeder full of food is a great daily activity for seniors.

Enjoy Pool Time

Check with local community pools that offer specific times for seniors to enjoy swimming. Many of these pool locations offer water aerobics classes.

Attend a Community Event

From Memorial Day concerts to Fourth of July parades and fireworks, there are plenty of community events during spring and summer that offer opportunities for elders to get out and be part of the crowd. Many communities offer outdoor musical performances, art and craft shows, car shows, flea markets, farmers’ markets, and more. Peruse the events section of the local newspaper to find happenings that fit your loved one’s interests and abilities.

Enjoy the Sunsets

Some of the most beautiful sunsets are in the summer season. Enjoy the beauty of the mountains, a local park, a beach, or even from your porch. Enjoy these beautiful (and free) moments!

Visit a State Park

Take a drive and visit your closest state or national park. A nice drive in the comfort of your car can be a great mood uplifter.

Whichever activity you choose to do, spending time outdoors or participating in an indoor activity will be uplifting to you mentally and physically. Keep moving and keep learning. Take time to smell some roses this summer!

*Spending time outdoors is a great source for Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps fight osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, and depression.

If you are planning any activities out in the sun, please remember the following precautions for your safety:

• Wear sunscreen. Find a water-based sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 for optimal protection. Sunscreen will need to be applied every two hours due to swimming or sweating. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before your skin is exposed to the sun.
• Stay hydrated. If you plan to be outside on a really hot day, increase your water by one or two additional eight-ounce glasses.
• Wear protective clothing. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are an additional way to protect your skin and your eyes from sun damage.
• Have an umbrella handy. Umbrellas offer great shade from direct sun and heat.
• Schedule your time in the sun. If possible, avoid the sun between 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The best time to be in the sun is early morning until 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.