Spring has finally sprung! What could be more rejuvenating than spending it outdoors? The fresh air and sunshine are great for your health, and there’s no shortage of fun activities to do whether you’re 9 or 90. We’ve come up with 5 fun ways to celebrate spring with your aging loved one.
Physical activity is a crucial aspect of healthy aging for older adults. It helps to maintain muscle strength, prevent injuries, and improve balance and coordination. Regular physical activity can also help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. In addition, older adults who are physically active tend to have better mental health and a lower risk of cognitive decline.
There are many different ways to be physically active that don’t include working up a sweat from planting flowers to taking a stroll through the park. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity, but as always, they should check with their doctor before trying new activities that require sustained physical exertion. There is no shortage of fun things to do in Spring with your senior.
It’s also important to note that this time of year, while beautiful, comes with increased allergens. Be sure to ask their doctor if you or they have any concerns, and pack allergy medication just in case you decide to spend the day outdoors.
With that being said, here are 5 fun ways to celebrate spring with your aging loved one:
1. Have a Picnic
One of the best things about warmer weather is being able to enjoy meals outdoors. Pack a picnic basket with your older loved one’s favorite food and drinks and find a spot in your local park or backyard. Also, don’t forget the blanket to sit on – it makes picnicking much more comfortable.
Everyone appreciates the change of scenery and fresh air that picnicking provides. Plus, enjoying a meal together is a great way to bond with your loved one. You may even decide to fly kites if you have little ones and the breeze is just right. Many towns and cities have free concerts during the springtime. Check your local paper or online calendar to see what’s happening in your area.
2. Go for a Walk
Walking is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying all that nature has to offer. Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on the joints, and it’s also a great way to socialize. If your elderly loved one isn’t able to walk long distances, consider pushing them in a wheelchair through the park or neighborhood instead. You could also take them on a drive instead. With the windows down, they can still enjoy the scenery. The sunshine and fresh air are good for the mind, body, and soul, so make sure to take advantage.
3. Visit a Farmer’s Market
What better way to welcome the new season than by supporting your local farmers? At a farmer’s market, you’ll find an abundance of seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade jams, pies, and honey. It’s the perfect place to stock up on healthy snacks for your picnic!
Farmer’s markets are also a great way to connect with your community. You’ll find people from all walks of life browsing the stalls, chatting with the vendors, and enjoying the outdoors. And of course, there’s nothing quite like eating food that was grown locally and is in season.
4. Plant Flowers
Does your senior loved one have a green thumb? Well, nothing says spring like flowers in bloom. Gardening is a wonderful way to get some physical activity and enjoy the outdoors. Herb gardens are especially popular, as they can be used to add flavor to meals or even create homemade teas. Flowers are another popular choice, of course, as they provide a burst of color throughout the home. Your aging loved one can channel their inner-farmer by growing their own vegetables.
If your senior loved one is interested in starting a garden but has a difficult time bending or stooping, consider raised beds or containers. You can even help them plant flowers, easy-to-care-for succulents, or herbs in pots that can be placed around the home.
5. Go Bird Watching
Get outside and appreciate nature with some bird watching. It’s a relaxing activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Help your senior loved one set up a bird feeder in their yard or find a local park where you can do some bird watching together.
Bird watching can be done with just a pair of binoculars, making it a perfect activity for senior adults who might not be able to walk long distances. It’s also helpful to have a field guide so you can identify the different bird species you see.
No matter how you choose to celebrate spring, spending time with your elderly loved one is sure to put a smile on their face. Spring is a time to enjoy the simple things in life and make memories that will last a lifetime. So get outside and enjoy the warmer weather! Just make sure to use sunscreen and stay hydrated – especially if you’ll be spending time in the sun. Have fun!
If you are short on time and your loved one needs companionship or fun things to do in spring, contact us to see what we can do!
About RetireEase
As the premier senior caregiver service in Columbia, SC, our caregivers are passionate about integrated care. We understand the importance of caring not just for people’s physical needs but for their mental and social needs as well. You can learn more about our services here.
If you’re looking for high-quality, personalized senior home care in the greater Columbia, SC area, we’d love to talk. You can contact us here.
