Going outside is great for the physical and mental health of seniors. Enjoying fresh air and sunshine has amazing benefits on their body and it does not cost a lot to enjoy the outdoors.

Now that the winter season is over, it is beneficial for seniors to enjoy some outdoor activities just like everyone else. However, you need to make sure that the outdoor activities that your senior loved ones engage in are safe and reasonable for their physical and cognitive abilities.

Here are some safe and inexpensive ways that seniors can enjoy outside activities:

Trails accessible by a wheelchair

Even if a senior does not use a wheelchair, these types of trails are wide and nicely paved which assures there will be no falls or slips. These trails are also shorter so that the senior gets some exercise but doesn’t get over tired.

Cloud watching

Spending time outside helps reduce anxiety. To connect with nature, you can try cloud watching with your senior family member. You can also try cloud watching and deep breaths which can make for a meditative experience.

Stargazing

If the senior is interested in meteorology, you can do some stargazing and meteor shower watching. Check out the American Meteorological Society for a list of meteor showers and other related events.

Playing Games while Walking

There are many walking games you can play while walking around your neighborhood. Some examples include Pokémon Go, Ingress, and Geocaching. You can also form teams with others to make it even more fun.

Watching the Bird Feeder

This activity can be done indoors and outdoors. Seniors can watch the bird feeder from inside their home or outdoor on their deck or patio.  Some studies even show that it lowers anxiety and depression. Bird feeders are not very expensive and can bring seniors great joy all year.

Visiting the Farmers Market

Visiting the farmers market can be great for seniors. They get to be outside with others, there are many healthy options of fruits and vegetables they can purchase, and they can enjoy the sunshine. Some farmers markets have additional entertainment such as live music which can be enjoyable.

Gardening

This is a great activity that enables seniors to spend some time outdoors and connect with nature. In the spring they can check out Facebook groups or websites such as NextDoor which sometimes give away free perennial cuttings and so they can create a garden at no cost.

Picnics

Picnics are a great way to combine eating and outdoors. It can be a very enjoyable activity for seniors as it can involve many others or just a few.

Volunteering

A great way to give back to the community, hang out with others, and be in nature is to volunteer outdoors. If the senior is looking for more of a virtual volunteering opportunity, they can do this from home as there are many opportunities for that. They should check with their local community center or church for some local volunteering opportunities.

Photography

Seniors can easily take photos with their smartphones to capture the nature outdoors. This is a great way to get outdoors, get some exercise and connect with nature.

Agritourism

This is a great way for seniors to enjoy what local farms have to offer. That includes activities such as fruit picking, cider making, farm-to-table dinners, and even goat yoga. Check your local listings for more ideas.

Companion Care with Assisting Hands:

There is no doubt that spending time outdoors is beneficial for seniors. If you think your senior loved one could use some companion care, Assisting Hands of Palos Heights can help. We offer quality senior home care services to help seniors in their home. For more information about our senior companion care services, make sure to give us a call at (773) 207-3767.