Springtime Activities for Seniors

06/05/2014

Activities are the key to an active mind and body

Spring is a time of awakening and rejuvenation. When springtime comes, it isn’t just the young who get spring fever. Seniors also get that craving to get up, get out, and enjoy the warmth, sunshine, and scents of spring. After all, watching the earth renew itself and bring forth flowers and greenery gives us hope. For seniors looking for things to do in the spring, there are many activities seniors can enjoy indoors and out that are fulfilling while not being too physically demanding.

Here are 8 springtime activities for seniors:

Gardening –
There’s something about working in the soil that lifts the spirits. Whether planting flowers or vegetables, seniors may enjoy gardening in the fresh air. In fact, gardening is a form of therapy. According to the American Horticultural Therapy Association, Horticultural Therapy is defined as “a process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment of persons thus improving their body, mind, and spirit.”
Spring Cleaning –
Around the yard or around the inside of the home, spring cleaning helps us refresh our living environment and renew our mind as we do away with clutter while getting light exercise.
Make Changes –
Change can be good. As the seasons change we should change out our wardrobe to spring and summer clothing, get those windows open, and perhaps lighten up the colors in our home.
Go for a Walk –
Get outside and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, stretch those muscles and feel refreshed. Take a friend or family member with you and make a day of it.
Go Bird Watching –
Whether in your yard or while on a walk, see how many birds you can spot, perhaps visit a local park. You’re sure to see a robin or two and maybe a Blue Jae.
Take in a ballgame –
Go see your local professional team, a minor league team or your grandchild’s team play a game. Nothing says “spring” quite like baseball.
Go for a Swim –
If your outdoor pool is warm enough, hop on in and go for a swim. If not, perhaps just lounge poolside and read a good book. Simply being near water is often enough to help one feel at ease.
Play like a Child –
Feel young again by reliving your youth — by yourself or with a grandchild. Enjoy fun springtime activities such as kite flying, blowing bubbles, or making paper airplanes.

Loved ones and caregivers should encourage seniors to engage in outdoor activities. Taking advantage of the springtime weather can help older adults increase their self-esteem, improve their health (mentally and physically), and help them develop a greater amount of independence.

Should it come time to find home care, hospice, or a senior living residence for a parent or other loved one, visit alternativesforseniors.com. There, you can find a wealth of information about senior apartments, independent-living, assisted-living, Alzheimer’s specialty care, and continuing-care communities where your loved one will be cared for lovingly.

BLOG Date: Thursday, June 5, 2014
Writer: Ryan Allen