The Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Seniors Ideas for Springtime Fun
Senior citizens need at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity activity every week, according to the CDC. They also recommend doing muscle-focused exercises at least two days per week. Seniors should also try to improve their balance whenever possible.
Scheduling outdoor activities for seniors is also important as the act of being outside offers physical and mental health benefits. While going outside is a good idea in and of itself, it helps if you have outdoor activities lined up.
Finding activities for seniors presents more challenges than planning activities for other groups. What kind of outdoor activities work best for seniors? Keep reading for some suggestions and the benefits they offer.
Gardening
It might not seem like much, but gardening is a physically demanding job. It’s a rewarding one, too. Whether you are creating the garden or tending to it, you’ll find no shortage of things to do.
Seniors can watch their plants grow in response to their hard work. Any gardener will tell you that this is one of the most rewarding experiences. The ongoing growth of the indoor plant market is further evidence of this.
Walking or Jogging
Walking is one of life’s simple pleasures. It provides a whole host of health benefits, and you don’t need any equipment to do it.
Walking provides health benefits, whether you’re walking on your own or with a cane or walker. Walking helps strengthen legs and build leg muscles. It’s also cardio, so it reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Bird Watching
Bird watching, referred to as birding by enthusiasts, is a popular hobby and a huge industry. People often travel for hours to see rare birds when they emerge.
While most of us don’t have time to chase birds for hours, even watching the birds in our own backyards can be a rewarding experience. Anybody who has watched trail cams knows that observing animals can be hypnotic.
Balancing Activities
Seniors should practice balance training regularly. Balancing offers great exercise, and it helps with your coordination.
Increased coordination reduces the risk of falling. That’s excellent news for our senior citizens.
You have options when choosing a balancing exercise. Start with whatever feels the most comfortable for you. Remember that any exercise, including balancing, is a process. It’s okay if you struggle with it the first time. Go at your own pace.
Outdoor Activities for Seniors
It’s important for all humans to spend some time outside. People are healthier when they connect with nature. We find more evidence of this almost every day.
Given that many seniors do have limitations, we’ve suggested some low-intensity activities here.
You can learn more about senior care and the many forms it takes by visiting our website. If you can no longer care for an aging loved one, we encourage you to read about our services. We have many facilities to choose from.
