For seniors living alone, the sense of loneliness can be difficult to keep at bay. One of the best ways to combat those feelings is with meaningful activities and recreation that provide both physical and social benefits. This article will look at five outdoor recreation activities designed specifically for seniors living solo with safety as a top priority.
It's Common For Seniors to Struggle With Loneliness
As seniors age and their friends pass away or go to care facilities, loneliness can become a real challenge. Participating in outdoor activities can help with this as it improves cognitive skills and overall well-being.
Five Outdoor Recreation Activities for Seniors Who Live Alone
There are many opportunities for senior citizens to enjoy outdoor recreation and activities. Some of the most popular activities include gardening, golfing, swimming, bird watching, and walking/hiking.
- Gardening is a wonderful way to stay active while enjoying nature. It can also provide mental stimulation as it allows seniors to plan what they will grow each season or year and requires attention to detail with its upkeep. Gardening is also a great way to connect with like-minded seniors who also enjoy growing plants and vegetables.
- Golfing is another favorite activity for those wanting physical exercise paired with socialization and relaxation. A day on a golf course is a great cure for the blues and can encourage strong social connections with other senior adults who enjoy golfing.
- Swimming is a popular activity for seniors. It requires little skill, offers great exercise, and encourages community connection. Many seniors also find that swimming classes help them to make new friends.
- Bird watching is a fun, low-impact way to enjoy the great outdoors. It can be a very immersive hobby that offers club meetups and numerous special events, so seniors can connect with other bird watchers in their area.
- Walking/hiking is a fantastic way to get exercise while chatting with friends. The Charleston area boasts many beautiful walking trails, perfect for beginner hikers and experienced enthusiasts alike.
Stay Safe During Outdoor Recreation
When enjoying these types of activities it's important to make sure they are done safely. Wear appropriate clothing, use sunscreen when needed, and take plenty of breaks. Also, bring water with you and wear the necessary protective gear while golfing and biking. When it comes to biking or hiking, a good practice is to follow established trails or paths just in case of a slip, trip, or fall incident.
Get Involved in Outdoor Recreation Today
Outdoor recreation activities can provide physical and mental benefits to seniors living alone. With a variety of activities to choose from, seniors can find the right types of recreational activities that both fit their lifestyle and interests as well as help fight loneliness.
Senior Helpers Charleston supports seniors in the Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Moncks Corner, James Island, and Daniel Island areas with premium caregiving services. Contact us today to learn more!