Being outdoors for a few hours every week provides seniors with a variety of benefits, including better cognitive and physical health. Soaking up the sun for just 15 minutes a day can increase levels of vitamin D, which is a vital nutrient for different functions in the body, such as providing energy and strengthening bones. Here are a few hobbies for seniors who want to participate in outdoor activities.
1. Nature Photography
Modern digital cameras are more affordable than ever, and most basic features can be learned in a single afternoon. Nature photography gives seniors a reason to spend time outdoors learning about new plants and animals. Seniors who live in large cities can start this hobby by taking pictures of flowers, trees, and birds near their homes. As they become more proficient with their cameras, they can then start upgrading some of the key components, such as lenses and ring lights.
If your loved one needs a companion to accompany him or her on outings, a professional caregiver can be the ideal solution. The type of elder care seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Home Care Assistance, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.
2. Metal Detecting
This low-impact hobby is a great option for an inquisitive senior. While people usually go metal detecting on the beach, seniors can also do it at local parks and along walking trails. Entry-level metal detectors are extremely affordable, but they can make this hobby feel monotonous due to the high number of false alarms. Those who are really interested in this pastime might want to consider buying a high-quality metal detector with adjustable sensitivity levels.
3. Gardening
Gardening requires seniors to move around, which raises the heart rate, and this activity also provides fresh produce and herbs. With the right tools and supplies, your loved one can do gardening almost any time of the year. Before starting, your parent might want to speak with a specialist at a nursery to see what plants grow best in the local climate. Specialists can also test the pH balance of the soil.
Gardening boosts emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of at-home care Montgomery families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
4. Fishing
Fishing can be relaxing or strenuous, depending on where a senior fishes and what types of fish he or she catches. Stream fishing is extremely low-impact and requires nothing more than an affordable rod and some cheap bait. Seniors who want more of a challenge can try different variations, such as fly fishing. As they become better at this pastime, they can explore new locations to fish, such as shore fishing at the beach.
5. Yard Games
Seniors shouldn’t stop being competitive just because they can’t play strenuous sports. They can play a variety of unique yard games, some of which can gently raise the heart rate without causing too much strain. Horseshoes, bean bag toss, and ladders are all excellent options for seniors who want to work on their coordination and upper body strength. Most of these games only require a handful of items to play, and the matches can go on for as long as they like.
Make sure your loved one has the physical and mental support he or she needs to enjoy spending time outdoors. For families living in Montgomery, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (334) 593-3988 to learn more about our customized care plans.