5 Great Summer Activity Ideas for Seniors

Summer is the best time of year for most people. It’s when the days are longer, the weather is warmer, and we can get back in touch with the natural world outside. But, as we age and our mobility becomes more limited, a 30-mile bike ride or a 3-hour trek in a national park is probably too much. Many people spend more time indoors during the summer months in their senior years, but here at TruCare Home Care, we wanted to give you 5 great summer activity ideas for seniors to help you or your loved one make the most of the summer ahead!

1. Grow your own garden

Gardening is one of the best activities for seniors. It is active, but not intensive, it promotes healthy eating, and it encourages them to spend plenty of time in the great outdoors. It can also be a great social activity and is highly rewarding. If you have a small piece of land—maybe a yard or balcony—you can grow plants in pots or directly in the soil. Just get some seeds, some high-quality soil, and get planting! If you don’t have access to this kind of land, inquire about some local community gardens. This is a great way to get outside and enjoy the summer while also meeting and socializing with other budding gardeners in the area.

2. Outdoor Tai Chi

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that’s more akin to yoga or meditation than fast action Kung Fu. Unlike other martial arts, it’s usually done outside and focuses on breathing techniques and correct posture rather than the fighting aspect. It’s a great way to keep fit and an even better excuse to get outside during the warm summer months. Tai chi usually takes place in the morning before the day has gotten too hot. It’s therefore a great activity to do at the height of summer.

3. Attend an outdoor movie

If you or your loved one is a movie fanatic, why not take the movie theatre into the great outdoors? Drive-in movie theatres are once again becoming popular, so there are more and more to choose from. If you’d rather have your own showing at home, why not invest in a great quality projector and set it up in your yard? This is a perfect way to enjoy a warm summer evening with a cold drink and some nibbles!

4. Find a nice reading place

If you’re a book lover, there’s no need to stay indoors to read your favorite thriller. Why not find a nice spot in the park or a bench with an amazing view so you can enjoy the great outdoors while getting engrossed in your favorite book?

5. Take a day trip on the river

Riverboats operate in most US cities, and they’re a great way to enjoy the city sights while skipping out on the busy traffic and chaos of the roads. You’ll find riverboat schedules on most company websites, or you could call them by telephone to get it straight from a member of staff. Boating is a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors on a nice summer’s day, but make sure you bring suitable clothing, sunblock, and enough water to stay hydrated as you could be out of the house or several hours.

Seniors don’t need to miss out on all the fun that summer has to offer, and by taking some of these suggestions, you or your loved one could make the most of the year ahead. There are plenty of low-mobility activities out there, it’s just a matter of thinking a little bit outside of the box. If you or your loved one want to find some great ideas for summer activities, feel free to call us here at TruCare Home Care. Our staff regularly take seniors on day trips and other excursions and help them with hobbies such as gardening. They’re experts when it comes to knowing what is ideal for seniors and what they should avoid in the summer months.