The sun is shining, and the heat is rising – it’s the perfect time to get your senior loved one outdoors for some vitamin d! Participating in activities this summer can be very beneficial to elderly mental and physical health. Whether you attend a local festival or sneak away to a theater to cool down, summer activities are in full swing and it’s the perfect time to take advantage. Check out our list of 5 indoor and outdoor activities for seniors from Freedom Home Care here:
Go Swimming!
The best way to beat the heat is to dive into a refreshing pool. There are many local pools that have a low admission rate if you don’t own a pool. A revitalizing swim somewhere new will feel tranquil and uplifting offering both physical and mental health benefits. Activities like swimming and water aerobics help to build cardiovascular strength by getting your heart pumping. You naturally use multiple muscles in your body when swimming allowing for a workout without you even realizing it!
Nature Walk
Although your senior loved one may not be able to take a long trip or head to an amusement park, a simple walk in nature can be the perfect time to enjoy some scenery while reminiscing on past times. According to the Mayo Clinic, studies have found an association between time in nature and benefits to mental and physical health such as lowering stress, heart rate and diastolic blood pressure.
Outdoor Festivals
There are many fun outdoor festivals going on this summer that anyone can enjoy. If you are looking for senior activities near me, look no further than the Highland Park, IL area. The Patch provides a variety of activities that seniors can enjoy. To name a few:
- 07/30-7/31 Highland Park Summer Sidewalk Sale – Merchants from throughout Highland Park move their merchandise to the downtown for this shopping extravaganza.
- 08/17 Free Yoga in the Park – Participants must bring their own mat. More information here on how to register.
- 08/20 Live At Sunset – Bring your spouse, significant other, or a few friends for a free evening of live music by Mike Jansen.
Indoor Markets
Take a break from the outdoors by heading inside to enjoy the air conditioning. Seniors can take a stroll around the mall or a local market to stretch their legs and enjoy a new atmosphere. On July 18th, the Chicago Artisan Market will be coming to Morgan Street in Chicago. Shop small, local and sustainable goods indoors with the ac blowing! Tickets are available at com/tickets/.
Indoor Crafts
Working on a craft can help seniors express their emotions and develop fine motor skills needed to gain confidence. Art therapy can also provide stimulation for those living with dementia. Not to mention crafting is a great activity to enjoy indoors and out of the heat.
Whether your senior loved one heads outside or stays indoors, participating in activities this summer can help provide seniors with great benefits. Our certified caregivers are happy to help your elderly loved one participate in plenty of activities this summer. If you have questions regarding in-home care, personalized elder care or Alzheimer’s care, we at Freedom Home Care are happy to help.
