Since you’re in your golden years, you probably think that going outdoors isn’t fun anymore, but that’s not the case! As long as you choose fun and suitable activities to participate in, spending time outdoors can be just as enjoyable as in your younger years. To give you a few ideas of what you can do, check out this list of enjoyable senior outdoor activities!
Gardening
Gardening can be a great way to enjoy the fresh air and get your hands dirty. While you do need to pay close attention to what you’re doing, it doesn’t require much in terms of athletic prowess, so it is easy for aging family members with any amount of mobility issues to get involved. You can even create something for yourself that will allow you to garden from your own home or apartment. Gardening also provides for a very low-key social experience–many people find gardening an enjoyable way to connect with family and friends. And best of all, gardening has been shown by research to have powerful psychological benefits.
Walking
Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises for older adults. Walking can help increase your stamina, slow your heartbeat, and lower blood pressure. Not only does walking keep you in shape, but it also releases endorphins which are great for stress relief and help make you feel happier. Before you go out on a walk, make sure to check with your doctor if it’s safe for you to exercise at all.
Bird-Watching
Many people who engage in bird-watching are well past their middle years. Although it may require getting up earlier to see more active birds at dawn, bird-watching can be an excellent form of exercise and entertainment for seniors. Bird-Watching also provides Aging adults with an opportunity to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature. Bird watching doesn’t require any special equipment or training, making it easy for beginners to start watching birds right away. For those interested in bird-watching, spring is a great time, when many species can be seen at once or on the weekend with nothing else happening, so they won’t be distracted.
Swimming
You can swim in any area that’s free of strong currents and large waves. Swimming is a low-impact exercise, making it easy on your joints, especially when you do it in a pool. Swimming also helps strengthen your upper body and improves your balance. The only equipment you need to get started is a swimming suit and goggles or a pair of waterproof glasses if you want to see underwater.
Water Aerobics
If you don’t like water much, water aerobics can be just what you need to give swimming another try—and this time with plenty of support from people who are in about the same place as you when it comes to swimming.
Picnicking
Picnicking is a great way to spend time with your family and friends in a different outdoor setting. You can pack up all of your favorite things to eat and then enjoy your meal in an area that you usually wouldn’t be able to go to. Taking in all of these new surroundings is a beautiful opportunity for Aging adults, and they will appreciate it more than they realize! This doesn’t have to cost you anything, but it can lead to some memorable experiences with those around you.
