You’ve likely heard about the many wellness benefits of staying active. Newer studies show that spending time outdoors can offer tremendous perks as well. If you or your loved one enjoys being outside, outdoor activities for seniors can be a refreshing way to spend quality time together.
In this blog, we’ll explore 50 fun and enriching activities worth trying when the weather is nice, and their benefits. We’ll also share a few helpful tips to make outdoor activities safer and more comfortable for you or someone you love.
Health Benefits of Outdoor Activities for Seniors
Along with being an enjoyable pastime, outdoor activities for older adults can also offer a wide range of health and wellness benefits, including:
- Improved Mood: Many experts agree that spending even just a few minutes outside each day can help combat feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Better Physical Health: Regularly enjoying outdoor activities provides a gentle workout for your muscles and joints and may help improve strength, balance, and cardiovascular health as you age.
- Higher Vitamin D Levels: Enjoying some sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which supports optimal bone health and boosts immune function for seniors.
- Supports Better Sleep: Spending time outside helps regulate the circadian rhythm and boost melatonin levels, supporting better sleep at night.
- Opportunities to Socialize: Most outdoor activities for seniors can be enjoyed in groups, offering plenty of natural opportunities to meet new friends.
- Mental Stimulation: Many outdoor activities require some level of focus and concentration, making them an excellent way to exercise the brain and enhance cognitive skills.
1. Nature-Inspired Activities
In addition to being a meaningful pastime, research suggests that interacting with nature is also good for your health. If you love to enjoy the beauty of the natural world, there are many outdoor activities for seniors you may try, including:
Fishing
If there’s a pond or lake nearby, fishing is a great activity to enjoy at any age. You can go solo, but it’s even better with a friend or two. It’s a relaxing way to have fun.
Birdwatching
If you love birds, you can go birdwatching at your local park. Or even better, set up a birdfeeder in your backyard to attract a few birds.
Gardening
Gardening offers wonderful health benefits for seniors. Flowers, herbs, and vegetables are usually easier to tend for most older adults. To make it more comfortable, consider using ergonomic tools or setting up a raised garden to reduce bending and stretching.
Fruit Picking
Visit a local farm or orchard for a relaxing outing to pick fruit. It’s a fun and active way to spend time outdoors, and you get to take home fresh goodies. Just be sure the weather is comfortable, and take breaks to avoid standing for too long.
Nature Walks
Go for a nature walk at nearby parks or trails. Wear comfortable shoes and choose flat, paved paths. If you or your loved one uses mobility aids, check for wheelchair-accessible locations.
2. Social Outdoor Activities
If you love being around others, there are many outdoor activities for seniors that offer natural opportunities to connect with others, including:
Dance Classes
Consider joining senior-friendly dance classes in your area. You’ll have plenty of fun, get a gentle workout, and make new friends!
Community Events
Attend local fairs, outdoor markets, or neighborhood meetups in your area. They’re a great way to get to know your surroundings and socialize with others in your community.
Fitness Classes
You can also join a fitness class to reap the many benefits of exercise. If you’re looking to exercise and meet new friends, check with your local gym or fitness club to see if they offer senior-friendly classes.
Book Club Meetup
Reading is great for everyone. If you’re in a book club, organize a meetup at a park to exchange books or chat about your latest reads.
Traveling
Traveling is one of the most popular outdoor activities for seniors. You can join a travel group or go on solo trips to destinations you’ve always dreamed about.
3. Solo Outdoor Ideas
If you want to enjoy some quiet time outdoors, there are many activities that you can enjoy solo, like:
Bird Feeding
Interacting with feathered friends can provide numerous physical and mental benefits. You can visit a local bird shelter or install a bird feeder in your backyard to attract a few birds.
Walking
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, walking is one of the most popular choices. It provides a gentle way to exercise your joints and muscles while offering a range of wellness benefits. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stick to smooth, paved pathways to help prevent injury.
Picnic
Picnics can be a great way to enjoy some quiet time in nature. Pack some water, food and snacks, a good book, and head to your favorite spot.
Reading Outdoors
Enjoy your favorite book while enjoying some sunshine and fresh air. Choose a shaded area with comfortable seating to minimize eye strain and make for an enjoyable reading experience.
DIY Projects
You can try DIY crafts that interest you, like making decorations for your house or crocheting a throw blanket. You can use your phone or tablet to find tutorials online.
4. Gentle Outdoor Exercises
If you’re looking for gentle ways to exercise outdoors, there are plenty of outdoor activities you may try, including:
Swimming
Swimming is a great way to get a full-body workout without straining your muscles and joints. Check with local senior centers, gyms, community centers, or swim schools to see if they offer programs designed for older adults.
Tai Chi
Tai chi offers many benefits that are especially helpful for seniors, including improved balance and coordination. You can look for senior-friendly Tai chi classes online, at your local fitness center, or within your senior living community.
Walking a Pet
Walking your pet helps keep both you and your furry friend active. If you don’t own a pet, you might consider volunteering to walk a neighbor’s dog or helping out at a local animal shelter.
Pickleball
Pickleball is a gentler alternative to tennis, played on a small court with a paddle and a plastic ball. It’s a great way to stay active while also socializing with others. Many senior centers and community parks offer classes specifically for older adults, along with beginner-friendly games you can join.
Biking
Biking is a fun way to explore the outdoors while getting a gentle workout. Be sure to choose a flat trail and a comfortable bike. Consider a three-wheeled or electric assist option if needed.
5. Accessible Outdoor Activities
Many seniors live with limited mobility due to various reasons. The good news is that many outdoor activities can be adapted to seniors with varying abilities, including:
Drive-In Movies or Outdoor Screenings
Drive-in theaters and outdoor screenings often show classic films and family favorites, making them a nostalgic treat. Bring along a comfy chair or blanket, and don’t forget snacks! Some senior communities and local parks even host movie nights just for older adults.
Attend a Farmer’s Market
Visiting a farmer’s market is a great way to enjoy fresh air, support local vendors, and pick up seasonal fruits, veggies, and handmade goods. It’s also a fun social outing. You might run into neighbors or strike up a chat with a friendly vendor. Many markets are walkable and held in accessible areas, making them a senior-friendly activity to look forward to each week.
Chair Yoga
Chair yoga movements are done while sitting or using a chair for support. Adding it to your routine can help improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Look for outdoor chair yoga classes at local senior centers or enjoy a quiet stretch in the morning sun at home.
Visiting a Botanical Garden
Visiting a botanical garden offers a quiet and relaxing way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature. Many gardens provide benches, shaded areas, and wheelchair-accessible walkways, making them accessible and enjoyable for seniors. Some even host guided tours or seasonal events that make visits even more enjoyable.
Outdoor Concerts
If you enjoy live music, look for senior-friendly outdoor concerts in your area. These can include local band performances or music festivals, where you can enjoy hearing music with a friend or two.
6. Outdoor Fun With Family
Spending time with family outdoors is a great way to strengthen connections. It can also have a wealth of wellness benefits, according to research. Here are some outdoor activities for seniors you can enjoy with loved ones:
Backyard BBQ
A backyard BBQ is a great way to enjoy time outdoors while reconnecting with loved ones. Choose a shaded, accessible area, and offer plenty of meal options for everyone to enjoy.
Guided Walking Tours
Guided walking tours offer plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors and learn something new. Many cities and towns provide senior-friendly tours to help older adults explore their favorite attractions.
Campfire Storytelling
Gather around a campfire to share stories with your grandkids. Bring comfy chairs, a few blankets, and some classic treats like s’mores or roasted marshmallows for a cozy evening.
Water Plants
Tending to outdoor plants can provide a gentle workout alongside therapeutic benefits. You can water the flowers on the porch or tend to a small garden with your loved one.
Play Card Games and Puzzles
Enjoy your favorite card games or puzzles on the porch, patio, or at a park table. Whether you’re playing with a partner or working on a puzzle solo, these activities can be a great way to engage your mind while soaking up some sunshine.
7. Seasonal Ideas
Every season brings new ways to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some fresh and exciting seasonal ideas that are worth a try:
Craft a Holiday Gift
Make a handmade holiday gift for someone you love. Set up a small crafting station on the porch or patio and create something meaningful, like a handmade ornament, a painted flowerpot, or whatever you feel comfortable making.
Decorate Your Home
Adding a festive touch to your porch, balcony, or yard is a fun way to enjoy the outdoors and brighten up your space. You can hang a seasonal wreath, set out potted plants, or add string lights.
Arrange Get-Togethers with Friends
Spending time with friends outdoors can help strengthen connections and even brighten your day. Get-togethers don’t have to be fancy to be meaningful. A casual coffee on the porch, a picnic at the park, or a small backyard BBQ can be just right.
Visit Family
Spending time with family, especially outdoors, can be both uplifting and refreshing. You can share a meal on the patio, watch the grandkids play in the yard, or simply chat while enjoying some sunshine and fresh air.
Help Grandkids With Decorations
Enjoy outdoor crafting by helping your grandkids put up decorations for the season or a special occasion. You can assist with simple tasks like hanging lights, painting pumpkins, or making paper snowflakes.
8. Brain-Healthy Outdoor Activities
Enjoying outdoor games for seniors can help support cognitive health. If you’re wondering, “What are some outdoor games for senior citizens?” here are some outdoor activities for seniors that may help keep your mind sharp:
Decorate Plant Pots
Add a little color and personal touch to your outdoor space by painting and decorating plant pots. You can use paints, stickers, or even natural materials like leaves and twine to make each pot unique. Once they’re dry, fill them with flowers or herbs and display them on your porch or patio.
Rock Painting
Find a few smooth stones and let your imagination guide your paintbrush. Create cheerful designs, inspiring messages, or fun patterns. Painted rocks make lovely garden decorations or thoughtful little gifts for family and friends.
Outdoor Photography
Grab your camera, or even your phone, and head outside to capture the beauty around you. Whether it’s blooming flowers, birds at the feeder, or the smiling faces of loved ones, outdoor photography helps you slow down and notice the little things.
Board Games With Grandkids
Set up a table on the porch or in the yard, bring a few snacks, and enjoy your favorite board games with your grandkids. Classics like checkers and Scrabble are perfect for a bit of friendly competition and fun.
DIY Crafting
Take your creativity outside with a fun DIY craft project that interests you. Set up a small table on the porch or in the yard, and try making bird feeders, wreaths, or seasonal decorations.
9. Mindfulness and Relaxation
Spending quiet time outdoors can do wonders for your mind and body. You can try:
Yoga
Practicing yoga outside is a great way to unwind and give your body a light stretch. All you need is a mat and a quiet spot in the yard or park. Many communities also offer scenario-friendly outdoor yoga classes that you can join.
Nature Walk
Whether you’re strolling through a local park, a garden trail, or just around your neighborhood, a walk outdoors is one of the most refreshing ways to enjoy nature. Bring a hat, some drinking water, and maybe a walking buddy for company.
Sunset Watching
Watching the sunset is a lovely way to end the day. Find a cozy spot on the porch or at the park, and take in the scenic views. Bring a warm drink, your favorite snacks, and a blanket to make the experience even more enjoyable.
Outdoor Meditation
Meditating outside is an excellent way to relax your body and mind. Find a quiet spot in your yard, on the porch, or at a local park, and focus on your breathing as you take in the natural surroundings. The sights and sounds of nature, like birds chirping, rustling leaves, or a gentle breeze, can bring a sense of calm and clarity.
Plant Therapy
Spending time with plants has been shown to help reduce stress and boost your mood. You don’t need a big garden. Even tending to potted plants on your porch can be soothing.
10. Volunteering
Giving your time to help others is a meaningful way to share your skills and meet new people. There are many outdoor volunteering opportunities to explore, including:
Work at Local Park
If you’re looking for a way to stay active and give back to your community, consider working at your local park. You might assist with tasks like light gardening, help maintain walking trails, or support community events hosted at the park.
Trail Cleanups
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend free time outdoors, you can volunteer to help keep the trails you enjoy visiting clean. All you need is a trash bag and some gloves.
Animal Shelter
If you love animals, many shelters welcome volunteers who can walk dogs, brush animals, or simply keep them company outside.
Meal or Grocery Deliveries
Delivering meals or groceries to people in need is a helpful way to spend time outdoors. You can work with local programs like Meals on Wheels and bring food to seniors or families who could use a little extra support.
Guest Speaking
Guest speaking on topics you’re passionate about can be a rewarding way to share your knowledge and life experiences while also connecting with others. Schools and local community centers often welcome guest speakers to talk about their careers, hobbies, or lessons learned over the years.
Tips to Make Outdoor Time Easier and Safer
While staying active offers many important benefits, seniors often have different needs due to health conditions and natural age-related changes. These may include reduced strength, limited mobility, balance issues, or conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis.
That said, most outdoor activities for seniors can be adapted to suit various fitness levels and abilities.
Here are some practical tips to help you make outdoor time safer and more enjoyable for yourself or an older loved one:
- Stay Hydrated: Older adults can become dehydrated more easily, especially on hot days. When spending time in the sun, always bring a water bottle and take regular sips, even if you’re not feeling thirsty, to stay hydrated.
- Wear Sun Protection: While some sunlight is good for you, seniors can be more sensitive to sun exposure. Consider wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, or sunglasses during the hottest parts of the day to help protect your skin and eyes.
- Use Mobility Aids: Mobility aids can make outdoor activities more comfortable for seniors and help reduce the risk of falls or injuries. If you or your loved one uses a cane, walker, or wheelchair, be sure to bring it along. Choosing outdoor areas with smooth walkways or accessible features can also help make the experience safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
- Dress Comfortably: Most outdoor activities for seniors involve gentle movement. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing that allows for a full range of motion, and choose supportive shoes with non-slip soles to help reduce the risk of slips and falls.
- Schedule Regular Breaks: Long outdoor outings can leave you or your loved one feeling tired or sore and may even increase the risk of injury. When spending time outside, it’s a good idea to schedule regular breaks. You can also bring a folding chair or look for benches along the way to give yourself a chance to rest and catch your breath during the outing.
- Always Check the Weather: Always check the weather before heading out, and reschedule outdoor activities for seniors if conditions aren’t safe.
- Plan for Safety: Bring a fully charged phone, any necessary medications, and an emergency contact card when heading out. It’s also a good idea to bring a friend along or let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.
Let StoryPoint Group Be Your Guide
At StoryPoint Group communities, we treat each resident like family. We take the time to truly understand each person’s unique needs so we can create the best possible experience for them every day.
If you or a family member could benefit from extra support, we’re here to guide you.
To learn more or say hello, give us a call today at 1-844-275-9990 or schedule a tour of your nearby StoryPoint Group community.
