To experience tremendous health benefits, keep your aging loved ones active in many ways, such as workouts, partying and so on. Heading outdoors is one of the best, most rewarding ways for seniors to get some physical exercise. It’s important for them to be active and perform some kind of exercise in a safe and healthy way. If they do not have any chronic health conditions that prevent them from exercising, it’s the best magical activity that can boost their mood, lower the need for pain medication, provide their daily dose of vitamin D, strengthen relationships, and improve sleep.
Spending time outdoors encourages light exercise and promotes socializing. There are a handful of great outdoor activities for senior citizens that caregivers can easily arrange. As with anything, double check with the seniors if they’re comfortable going outside. Sometimes seniors suffering from allergies need to be given a little extra care.
Some of the outdoor activities or workouts that are good for seniors are:
- Outdoor Walking: Experts say that if possible, it’s better to exercise in a more natural setting like a park or green space instead of a paved location. Walk with others to experience the health benefits and the social aspect of exercising in a group is linked to a more positive outlook and better mental health. The Mayo Clinic found that regular walking is good to reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, keeping the body physically strong and can even improve balance and coordination. The brisk “conversation” walking is a great activity that most people can do safely. Plan a route that goes on sidewalks or on a trail that is safe for pedestrians.
- Yoga or Meditation: Fresh air and warm weather make yoga and meditation easy and enjoyable. If your body is feeling inflexible and uncertain, yoga is the key to revitalization. The same goes with your brain, by meditating, practicing relaxation skills, and shielding your mind from the chatter and buzz of the hectic world around you, you’ll be able to turn your thoughts inward, reflect, and become more attuned to your own body. Both can be calming activities, when paired with a gentle breeze and the gentle melody of song birds resulting in a unique experience.
- Gardening and Fishing: One of the most popular outdoor activities for aged people is gardening. This light aerobic activity is very helpful and can be incorporated easily into a daily routine, to stay active and maintain strength and flexibility. Fishing is another enjoyable activity for seniors who are skilled at this. Whether on a dock or pontoon, fishing boat, or from shore, this is a relaxing way to get outdoors and socialize.
- Picnic: To soak up some Vitamin D, this classic outdoor activity would be a perfect choice. Prepare a meal or a simple snack with a healthy side to make the picnic healthier. Fresh air and good conversation are great for both seniors and caregivers. You can even arrange some picnic games for senior citizens so that they indulge in some sort of exercise. Getting sufficient Vitamin D can reduce your risk of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and heart attacks, and is also thought to improve one’s mood.
- Play with Grandkids: A fun way to enjoy a bit of outdoor exercise is spending time with your grandchildren. Playing basketball or soccer will keep you feeling younger and agile. Even just going for a walk with your grandkids is an excellent way to pass an afternoon while also enjoying some fresh air. This also helps you to maintain good relations with your grandchildren, which somehow is missing these days.
