Summer Activities for the Elderly

When it’s warm outside and the sun is shining, it presents a great opportunity for elderly people to get outside and stay active. Summer activities for the elderly help older people move around, socialise and enjoy their day, rather than being cooped up indoors! 

If you’re an elderly person or have an older relative who may need some encouragement, we’d like to discuss some of the best summer activities for seniors this summer and beyond. 

Importance of Physical Activities in Older Adults 

Physical activities, whether that be a gym session or a walk to the shops, are important for everyone. For elderly or less mobile people in particular, however, they are even more vital. 

Gentle physical activities help the elderly retain flexibility, strength and dexterity, reducing physical decline. These activities can often be done in group settings too, letting older people socialise, which is beneficial to mental health and cognitive function. 

These benefits work to give older people a better quality of life, allowing them to remain independent and functional! 

The Best Outdoor and Social Activities for the Elderly

Group Fitness Classes 

Group fitness classes, such as yoga or pilates, can be gentle and accessible for all. Taking part in these classes keeps elderly people fit, flexible and strong, while providing them with a challenge. Having a goal to reach, such as a difficult yoga pose, can be extremely rewarding, providing elderly people with a target to reach.

By doing these exercises within a class, there’s the opportunity to socialise too. Elderly people may make new friends or just have the chance to chat after the class. However deep the connection is, socialising is still beneficial to mental health. Combining good exercise with socialising is a great way of improving one’s wellbeing. 

free home trial

Swimming and Water Aerobics 

Water aerobics and swimming are also great options. The benefit of this type of exercise is the protection the water provides. Water reduces the stress placed on joints, making it great for those with mobility issues such as arthritis

By having this protection, it makes it easier for elderly people to work out, improving strength, balance, heart health and more! 

Gentle Walks 

Elderly people should try and get a walk in each day, even if it’s just a short one. Short walks, while gentle and not strenuous, still provide several health benefits for the elderly, these include:

  • Improved heart health
  • Better balance and coordination
  • Increased core and leg strength
  • Reduced risk of falls

Additionally, taking a break outside is great for mental health and wellbeing. Walking can also easily be turned into a social activity. Invite friends or family along for the stroll to have a chat while you walk, another way to improve mental health! 

Gardening

Gardening is an activity that benefits mental and physical health. It also lets you take it at your own pace, allowing it to be more relaxing than strenuous. Besides being outdoors, getting fresh air and Vitamin D, gardening helps:

  • Build strength and support balance
  • Improve dexterity through hand movements
  • Boost your immune system with time spent outside

Gardening can also help improve your diet, letting you incorporate the fresh fruits and vegetables you’ve been growing into your meals! Gardening can be enjoyed at clubs or allotments, or if you’re lucky enough to have a good garden, it can be a gentle hobby to enjoy at home

Picnics with Friends and Family 

Perhaps the most gentle activity of our roundup is having a picnic. While picnics don’t require much exercise, they do require walking, standing up and sitting down and some help preparing food. These gentle tasks are good for motor skills, and walking is beneficial to overall health.

Picnics are also social activities, bringing together friends and family for a meal outside. Due to the social connection, picnics are great for mental health, reducing stress and helping you feel engaged and happy. 

Keeping Healthy and Happy

These activities don’t necessarily require the sun to enjoy either, making them suitable to enjoy year-round. Keeping active and social is important in maintaining mental and physical health for elderly people. 

If you or an elderly loved one needs a helping hand at home, our range of riser recliner chairs and adjustable beds provides comfort and assistance. Enjoy improved independence, reduced back pain, a new place to relax and much more! If interested, get in touch today about our free home trials, so you can experience the benefits firsthand. 

Riser Recliner Chairs

Riser Recliner Chairs

We believe everyone deserves the freedom to relax in complete comfort and independence at home. That’s why we proudly offer a premium range of riser recliner chairs and adjustable beds, designed to support your lifestyle and make everyday living comfortable again.

Adjustable Beds

Adjustable Beds

The bedroom is your sanctuary. It’s your place to rest, unwind and totally relax. But to do so, you need the perfect adjustable bed; comfortable and luxurious. At Grosvenor Mobility our range of electric mobility recliner beds do just that. Featuring easy-to-use handsets that operate our ultra-quiet motors allowing you complete control at the touch of a button.