Summer is the season for staying active and making connections. It is an opportunity for older adults to boost their energy levels and reduce feelings of isolation by spending time with nature and their family or friends.

However, it can also be a time of extreme heat and dehydration. Older adults are likely to have heat-related illness since their bodies are less efficient in regulating temperature. While doing these activities, remember to stay cool and keep hydrated. If the temperature is at its highest, do not do any outdoor activities and stay in air-conditioned spaces. Familiarize yourself with common heat-related illnesses and watch out for any signs.

Outdoor Activities

Studies have shown that spending time outdoors is linked with better physical and cognitive health, lower mortality, reduced depression, and improved quality of life. The same is especially true for frail older adults, where frequent activity of going outside their homes can help their sense of independence and continued home living.

Ride the bike

Cycling is a low-impact activity that can reduce the fear of falling and is easy on the joints. Adjust the bike according to what is comfortable by changing the seat height, choosing a cushioned saddle, or using a three-wheel bicycle.

Go on walks

Taking a walk around your neighborhood is a great way to stretch your body and surround yourself with nature. You can start slowly by walking for 5 minutes on your first day, then gradually increase it to 30 minutes. To make it more enjoyable, you can also listen to music while on walks.

Have a picnic or barbecue

Going on a picnic or barbecue night with your family and friends prevents loneliness. If you prefer to spend alone time, you can bring a book and snacks to keep yourself accompanied.

Fishing

Fishing is a low-impact activity you can do if you live near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and piers. Pick a shady spot, set up your chair, and don’t forget to wear sun protection.

Gardening

Gardening is not only for those with a green thumb. You can choose plants that are low-maintenance and easy to take care of, like snake plants and pothos. If you have limited space in your home, you can start gardening in a container and grow herbs. Gardening is one of the oldest activities suitable and accessible for older adults. It does not require much physical work and provides an effective avenue for stress relief.

Join community events

Loneliness and social isolation can increase the risk of mental health issues for older adults. To prevent this, ask around your community or neighbouring areas for events that you can participate in. This can be as simple as cultural festivities, environmental cleanups, charity events, or local fairs.

Before doing any outdoor activities, make sure to check the weather forecast and let others know where you are going for your safety.

Indoor Activities

Vulnerable older adults spend more time indoors than outdoors, but this does not mean that they cannot do lower-impact activities to keep themselves entertained this summer. Staying indoors is not all bad and can also be beneficial for older adults because it gives them familiarity and comfort, reduced stress or anxiety, and limits their exposure to diseases.

Play cards or memory games

Board games, bingo, jigsaw puzzles, board games, and card games are some of the games to keep older adults in company. Bingo and card games are most especially popular among them and can be played with a group in their homes or retirement facility.

Make arts and crafts

Arts and crafts activities are accessible for older adults and can be done in the comfort of their homes. It can be painting, knitting, origami, and scrapbooking, which can enhance their creativity and improve hand-eye coordination.

Cooking

Older adults can explore cooking by following a cookbook recipe or making one of their own. It can also be a form of social connection by joining cooking classes or cooking with their family.

Read books

Reading books can prevent the long-term decline of cognitive function in older adults. You can start your reading journey by borrowing books in your local library.

Connect with family and friends

Spend time with your family and friends at home by playing trivia games or watching movies. Summer is also a good time to reconnect with your old friends through video chat or calls.

Physical Activities

Physical inactivity and aging can increase the risk of chronic diseases. At present, a large number of older adults have low levels of physical activity. Physical activity is important in maintaining quality of life. Any kind of movement is encouraged, but older adults can also try fun activities this summer.

Pickleball

Pickleball has become a rising sport among all ages, which combines elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. It is not a highly intensive sport and is perfectly suitable for older adults to improve their breathing and increase their heart rate.

Exercise

Physical activity lowers the risk of falls, decreases the feeling of depression, and reduces stress levels in older adults. Try to do a mix of exercise activities including balance, flexibility, aerobics, and strength training. You can start slow and increase the intensity as you get used to it.

Go for a swim

Swimming can increase strength and mobility, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve endurance. Check if there’s an accessible pool near your neighborhood.

For older adults in Orange County, senior classes and water front activities are also available.

Learn more hobbies for personal growth in Ca Care Association’s news section.

Older Adult Friendly Activities This Summer

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Ca Care Association