by Assisting Hands Main Office
For your body and mind, senior-friendly ways to enjoy summer await. With longer days of more sunlight and beautiful flora in full bloom, now is the time to get outside and enjoy all that this season offers. There are many ways for you or your loved one to experience summer’s bounty of warmth and sunlight in safe and enjoyable ways.
It’s important to note that spending time in the sun has a number of benefits as well as risks. Sunshine brightens the mood while providing important vitamin D to the body. According to the CDC, vitamin D has been proven to reduce depression and anxiety, enhance cognition and improve sleep quality.
Conversely, it’s essential to be very mindful of the time spent under the sun’s rays. Overheating or dehydration can develop quickly and affect organ function, so drinking water and replenishing can reduce that risk. Long-term exposure to UV rays can also cause skin and eye damage, so use sunscreen, wear protective shades, and limit the time outdoors to 20-30 minutes. For your body and mind, senior-friendly ways to enjoy summer await.
Simply put, get outside!
The heat of day may limit the amount of time a senior can be outdoors. Early morning or late afternoon hours in many locations are milder and provide a more amiable temperature to enjoy your time outside. Take an early morning walk, or enjoy your breakfast on the porch. A caregiver can accompany you or your loved one on a walk around the neighborhood, or if you’re physically able, a walk on a hiking trail or nature preserve will provide more interesting views. Many of these sanctuaries offer paved or level trails that are senior-friendly. The point is to get some fresh air and sunshine.
Birdwatch
From filling up bird feeders in the yard to taking a walk through a park or nature persevere, birdwatching is an enjoyable activity that motivates seniors to get up and get moving. Even those relying on a wheelchair can participate.
Because bird feeders don’t require much square footage, they’re ideal for places with limited outdoor space like apartments and assisted living facilities. Get a bird book to help identify each new bird species that is seen. Ideal for people with limited mobility or declining health, birdwatching is a great way to experience nature without becoming exhausted in the process.
Go fish!
A fun and relaxing way to spend time outdoors is by fishing – and it’s even more enjoyable if you spend time with friends or grandchildren. Make sure you know about the requirements for fishing licenses in your state.
Care for a small garden
Gardening is a great way to interact with nature, so enjoy getting some fresh air and physical activity at the same time. For seniors with limited mobility, choosing options that require little maintenance are best. Pots that have easy access will allow you to be involved. Have a friend place the containers near a window where it can be seen, without all the efforts it takes to get outside, as this is a great way to improve your outlook.
Find a farmer’s market
Farmer’s markets or small roadside stands with locally-grown produce pop up during the season. They offer locally-grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and honey. They’re sure to be filled with summer’s bounty of blueberries, peaches, tomatoes, green beans, watermelon, squash, and more! Your caregiver can accompany you to pick out the colorful and healthy summer produce that appeals to you.
Visit a museum
When spending time outside is not possible, visiting a museum or aquarium is a great alternative. This will allow you to be comfortable in the air conditioning while learning new things at the exhibits. Many places offer senior discounts and easily accommodate wheelchairs, so be sure to check out special events they may host throughout the summer.
Spending time outside to enjoy summer’s pleasures is a wonderful way for you or your loved one to improve not only your physical health, but also your mental well-being. No matter how you choose to get outside, you’re guaranteed to return indoors refreshed.
Contact Assisting Hands Rockford for more senior-friendly ideas. Our individualized care services ensure that seniors maintain the best potential quality of life. We alleviate loneliness and isolation, all while giving the reassurance needed to remain active and engaged.
ABOUT OUR SERVICES
Assisting Hands® Rockford can provide assistance in the privacy of their own home for you or a loved one. Our caregivers have training and experience in providing in-home care. They have successfully passed extensive background checks, as well as being insured, bonded, and trained in CPR and First Aid. Assisting Hands® Rockford will help you select the best matched caregiver from its pre-screened group of available assistants. We can have qualified help placed in your home generally within 48 hours or less of the initial call.
