Getting outside is important at any age. It allows you to enjoy the fresh air and soak up the sunshine. As we grow into our golden years, outdoor activities may need to shift from high-intensity to more low-impact options. With that in mind, here are a few activities to explore in the great outdoors.
This is one of the most popular activities for seniors. It doesn't require intense physical activity, yet it still provides plenty of fitness benefits. Through bending, planting, pulling weeds, and watering, you can improve your flexibility and strength. If you need to make a few accommodations, consider planting a raised garden bed, so you don't have to bend quite as far. You can also purchase tools with a plastic grip, which is easier if you have arthritis. This article has more great tips to make gardening more accessible for seniors.
If you love expressing your creativity, you might want to take up photography. This is an easy way of capturing the world's beauty. There are lots of ways you can explore this hobby. For example, you might want to take pictures of your garden or neighborhood. Or you can photograph relatives. Maybe you'd like to venture off on a hiking trip or weeklong vacation to capture the world around you. With photography, you don't need an expensive camera to get started. A smartphone is a great option. If you want to take your skills to the next level, consider taking a class. As a bonus, classes are an easy way to form social bonds.
If you are looking for an entertaining way to get outside, why not take up fishing? Visit a local riverbank, lake, or pond. Maybe rent a small boat and make it a day on the water with friends? Fishing is a relaxing activity after a busy day, and it's extremely rewarding to reel in a great catch. Even better, you don't need to spend a lot of money to get started. All you need is a simple rod, bait, and a fishing license.
Another fun and relaxing way to spend time outside is having a picnic with friends and family. There are plenty of great parks to explore. Or you can host the event in someone's backyard. The only thing you really need to plan is what to eat. Why not share the responsibility and have everyone bring their favorite dish? If you want more ideas on what to pack, this article has lots of easy picnic food ideas.
As an added idea, you might find that local businesses and chambers will host events in a nearby park. For example, they might put on concerts or hold community theatre performances. You can plan your picnic around these events, creating a full day of entertainment.
One of the most popular ways to explore the outdoors is by walking. This is a gentle form of cardio that's also good for your mental health. Many people like to take a walk to help clear their minds. You should be able to find plenty of walking trails in your area to explore. If you want something more advanced, try taking on a short hike.
As we get older, it might help to have a little extra support during walks. Because of this, you might want to turn to a walker. It will provide plenty of support, so you'll be able to enjoy mobility. The good news is that there are plenty of walkers available, so you can find the ideal one just for you.
If you like to be out in nature but don't want anything too intensive, you might consider birdwatching. It's one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities, with 47 million birders currently in the United States. All you need to do is sit on a bench in a peaceful location. You'll then be able to watch the birds frolic and play. It can help to have some binoculars and a camera. Another option is to visit a local lake with some birdseed or corn to feed the ducks. Not sure exactly where or how to get started? The National Audubon Society offers this great guide to help.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or try your skills in a fishing competition, there are plenty of ways to spend more time in the great outdoors. All of us at Resort Lifestyle Communities encourage you to get out, enjoy the fresh air, and have fun exploring all of your options!
Resort Lifestyle Communities (RLC) develops all-inclusive resort-style communities to provide a relaxing and worry-free retirement lifestyle for residents. The comfort, safety, and enjoyment of our residents are our top priorities. For this reason, every community is staffed with live-in managers, a 24/7 emergency alert system and concierge service, gourmet chefs, housekeepers, maintenance staff, a full-time lifestyle director, and more. For more information about RLC, visit RLCommunities.com.
