Planning appropriate activities and fun day trips for seniors this summer will help them stay more active and have fun. In fact, going out into the community for social interaction, low-impact exercise, and psychological stimulation is exactly what our older population needs to increase their day-to-day quality of life.
When spending quality time with persons 65 years and older, it's a great idea to stay in the area, just in case. Someone could get tired easily or need to take medication at certain times. Staying in the area is safer and more familiar for them and the activities can become an essential part of a helpful routine. The question is: What activities are there in our area that are safe and accessible for older individuals? Here are some ideas on fun day trips for seniors this summer:
In Your Area
Senior Helpers of Hillsborough County provides non-medical in-home care to the following areas in Florida:
- Sun City Center
- Riverview
- Brandon
- Valrico
- Tampa
- Lithia
- Plant City
- Ruskin
- Apollo Beach
- Bloomingdale
- FishHawk
Caregivers can help take care of the day-to-day activities and ensure that your loved one remains true to certain routines and activities recommended by their family and medical team. Senior Helpers can care for your loved one in their home or accompany the older individuals, as well as their family members, on outings into the community that peak their interests, decrease their stress, as well as increase their physical fitness.
Fun Day Trips for Seniors This Summer
Everyone ages differently and even those with similar challenges have different needs and abilities. When choosing something to do for the day, it's always essential to check out the activity to ensure that your loved one is able to easily get to where they need to go without becoming overstimulated or exasperated.
When planning day trips for seniors, keep in mind the budget, physical ability, and cognitive level of the older individual before deciding on a final adventure. Ideas include:
Eureka Springs Park
Eureka Springs Park in Tampa is a great option for those interested in tropical botanical gardens, a tropical fish farm, a beautiful rose garden, as well as a room full of orchids. The colors, scents, and sounds of the nature reserve are comforting and nostalgic. Its trail also offers unique views of the creek and the largest collection of ferns in Florida.
International Independent Showmen's Museum
The International Independent Showmen's Museum is both tangibly nostalgic and fun. The museum, located in Riverview, details the history of two of history's greatest pastimes, the traveling carnival, and the circus. Carnivals and circuses were born in times of struggle, created to keep people's minds off the war and tragedies of everyday life. The Showmen's Museum has events, trade shows, as well as exciting circuses scheduled throughout the summer.
Galactic Playground and Interactive Science Center
The Galactic Playground and Interactive Science Center, in Brandon, may concentrate on teaching children about S.T.E.A.M. However, people of any age and ability are welcome to enjoy the interactive and immersive activities. While many older individuals will love watching the children play and learn, others, especially those affected by dementia, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's, could really enjoy and benefit from the hands-on activities, visual exhibits, as well as guided science experiments that will encourage them to use their hands and their brain to solve problems.
Tampa Bay History Center
Tampa Bay History Center also has permanent galleries and revolving exhibits that explore early life in Florida. Pirate history, Native American experiences, and European colonization are highlighted with art, history, and even treasure at the History Center. In fact, all three floors are filled with activities, classes, and other immersive experiences that our older generations can enjoy.
Looking for more ideas for fun day trips for seniors this summer? Contact us at Senior Helpers of Hillsborough County to learn about the services offered and the values and goals that are upheld when it comes to the quality of care that our older generations deserve. Communication is key and there will always be someone available, and knowledgeable to answer your questions.