If you are a senior looking for ways to spend more time outdoors, you’ve come to the right place! There are so many benefits to spending time outdoors including reduced stress, lowered feelings of depression and anxiety, and boosting your immune system. Trying to brainstorm outdoor activities can be a challenge, but it doesn’t always have to be a complex idea to make it enjoyable. Even if you have limited mobility, these activities are perfect for all activity levels.
Read more to see ways you can enjoy the outdoors as an older individual:
Walking
Not only does going for a walk encourage you to get outside, but it’s also great exercise! Walking has so many benefits for older individuals. It will help burn calories, strengthen your muscles, and allow your joints to remain flexible. Consider going for a walk through the park or along a walking trail. Ensure that you have good shoes that offer support and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You can do it by yourself or bring a friend and visit!
Picnic
There’s no better way to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air than a picnic outside. It doesn’t need to be an extravagant meal. When it comes to deciding what food to bring, pasta or potato salads are the perfect nutritious side. Combine it with other portable snacks and you’re good to go! Ensure that you pack your food and store it properly to optimize food safety. You’ll also want to remember to pack sunscreen, bug spray, and these extra essentials so that you can remain comfortable all day long.
Gardening
A common activity among older individuals, gardening is a great way for seniors to maintain their strength and flexibility. It is an enjoyable pastime that encourages the use of all motor skills. In addition, it promotes relaxation, reduces stress levels, and improves overall well-being. You also want to make sure that you are taking the necessary precautions before spending a lengthy amount of time outdoors. Check the weather before heading out. If it’s going to be a sunny day, pack water so that you can remain hydrated and protect your skin with sunscreen. To avoid the hottest parts of the day, try going before 10am or after 2pm.
Swimming
What better way to cool off during the summer months than going for a refreshing cool down in the water? Swimming is a great exercise for everyone, but it’s also an ideal workout for seniors as it allows them to get into better shape without adding stress or strain on the body. Falls are a major concern for older adults, and swimming offers the ability to develop core muscles that are pivotal to good balance control. In addition, swimming develops good leg strength and better control of posture. Water provides resistance which increases muscle toning results and improves overall fitness and body movements.
Why You Should Choose Vantage Point Retirement Community
We offer Active Adult Living that allows you to enjoy life the way that you want, surrounded by those who share your interests and passions. Homeowners in our active adult retirement communities lead independent lifestyles and enjoy a host of amenities designed to make living well easy. Communities feature clubhouses with pools, game rooms, fitness centers, activity centers, grand entertaining areas, pubs, saunas and business centers, to name a few. In addition, many homeowners within our communities enjoy walking paths, assistance with outdoor maintenance, lawn care and a “village-like” feel with clustered, quaint and cozy homes, well-lit streets and sidewalks.
Whether you’re looking for independent or assisted living, we want you to call Vantage Point Retirement Living home! Visit our website for more information.
