Outdoor activities are always enjoyable – especially during nice weather in the summer time. Older adults sometimes have a hard time finding outdoor activities to do. However, people of all ages can benefit from getting outside. Besides, it’s fun! Whether you like gardening, playing outdoor games, or visiting a park, there are always outdoor activity ideas to try out. Here is a list of some things you can try out solo, in a group, or even with grandchildren.
Fishing: what is better than getting outside, and potentially bringing home fresh dinner? Fishing is enjoyable and an opportunity to catch up with family and friends. Check out some local lakes, bring some great company and enjoy!
Gardening: a popular activity for all ages. Planting your own vegetables and fruit can be rewarding, and it’s fun to look after them too. Keep in mind the size of the garden, it should be a hobby and not a burden to take care of. If you have a large garden, assistance should be provided.
Golfing: golfing is a great pastime activity that requires patience, skill, concentration and accuracy. Seniors appreciate the physical and mental challenge of this sport.
Yard games: get a group together for some fun in the yard or in a nearby field. Try out an activity like Frisbee target toss, darts, volleyball, badminton or horseshoe.
Boat rides: getting onto a nearby lake or ocean is a great way to appreciate fresh air. It can be exhilarating, relaxing and fun. Invite some friends and family and don’t forget the sunscreen!
Metal detecting: metal detecting is a unique activity that is growing in popularity among seniors. It can be done solo, or with grandchildren. A metal detecting kit can be ordered online starting at $50 and can be used to search for interesting treasures on the beach, in parks, and other public spaces. You can even plan to take an excursion around the world to search for treasures in popular destinations. Look for books on best places to search either online or in a local bookstore.
Outdoor craft shows & flea markets: if you know of a craft show or flea market nearby, invite a loved one for an outing – you may even find an interesting gift to buy! It could be educational, vendors love to share their expertise. You might discover a new hobby that you didn’t know about.
Outdoor theatre or concert: your community likely has outdoor plays, song fests, and other productions going on during the summer months. Look up some local events and invite some friends to check them out.
Kite flying: a great choice for adults and children alike. You can even build your own kite, from the simplest to the more complex types. Kite flying is wheelchair friendly and can be done outside your home, in a park, on the beach and more.
Berry picking: when it comes to fun and delicious activities, this is definitely one of them! Support local farmers by picking berries, and then invite some friends over to enjoy them or bake with them.
Photography: with the technological advances these days, it is easier to enjoy a laid back, creative and relaxing hobby such as photography. It is not difficult, and is accessible to those in wheelchairs or with mobility limitations. You can easily install photos on your computer and edit images to your liking.
Bird watching: bird watching takes some self-studying and patience, but it is well worth the effort. In fact, many communities have bird watching groups. On your excursions, make sure to wear good walking shoes and to bring binoculars, a notebook and pen, a carry bag, a bird identification book and a camera.
No matter what your hobbies are, there is likely a way to bring it outside. Try something new this summer; you may even discover new interests and passions!