Ideas to Help Seniors Spring into Spring

After being cooped up over the long winter months, there’s nothing more enjoyable for some people than getting out of the house and enjoying the fresh air. But what exactly can senior citizens do, you ask? Plenty! Here are several things they can do by themselves, with a friend, or in a group or club. And bonus—they are all things that a family caregiver can do right along with them, which makes for special bonding and memory-building. Some of them, however, may need to be modified in order to accommodate your loved one’s health.

• Walking is a great springtime activity—not too hot yet and no longer bitter cold. It can be around the neighborhood, at a local track, park, or on a walking/hiking trail. Just remember to have your senior weigh appropriate shoes for the terrain they’re going to be walking on.
• Hiking is another great springtime activity, just like walking. If there are no nature trails or hiking trails around, there may be on in a neighboring community or county. Again, wear appropriate shoes, sunscreen and insect repellant.
• Visiting wildlife centers, nature centers or arboretums can be an exciting and educational outdoor activity to pursue.
• Go for a picnic in the park.
• Play outdoor yard games like croquet, pickle ball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, lawn darts, etc.
• Participate in other outdoor sports like tennis, golf, volleyball, badminton, or swimming.
• Bicycling can be enjoyable and a fun way to get some exercise. You can share the ride with a loved one by following the Bike Route that most cities have designated, taking you past points of interest, parks, etc. Or you can be adventurous and ride freely around town.
• Act like tourists and take in some of the sites and activities you’ve maybe never seen or done before.
• Go horseback riding if there are stables nearby that are open to the public. Or if that is too much for your loved one, see if the stable offers carriage rides.
• Gardening is a wonderful way to enjoy the weather, get some exercise and reap the rewards when the flowers, plants, or vegetables begin to thrive.
• Perhaps your loved one enjoys fishing. Point out some of the best fishing spots in the area and either share those with them or grab your pole, tackle box and go with them.
• Visit an outdoor café or coffee shop.

Just keep in mind, that what is a suitable outdoor activity for one senior, may not be good for your own loved one—and vice versa. If there are questions about their ability, their doctor can best advise them. Otherwise, help them to use common sense and take the necessary precautions to make whatever they choose to do fun, yet safe.

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregiver services in Collegeville, PA, contact the caring professionals at Reliant At Home Care today (610) 674-6860.