Moving your body is a wonderful way to maintain physical health, boost your immune system, and even improve mental health. However, participating in your favorite physical activities might take some adjustments due to natural changes that can come with aging. Whether you have always found yourself in a gym or if you are looking to start a new healthy habit, we have a round-up of our favorite physical activities for seniors.
The Best Outdoor Activities for Seniors
When you combine physical movement with fresh air, you get a double helping of endorphins, your body’s “feel good” hormones. Taking your movement outside can be beneficial, but it’s important to take precautions and be protected in the weather. Dress appropriately, accounting for your body temperature to rise with your physical activity, and take along water and your phone.
Now that you are prepared, you can take on any of these activities that will get you outside:
- Outdoor exercises, like walking, hiking, or tennis. You can also find outdoor exercise classes at many senior centers, including tai chi or yoga.
- Fishing can not only help improve fine motor and shoulder mobility from casting, but can also boost your physical activity when you walk to your favorite fishing spot.
- Golfing provides an excellent way to socialize with friends and work on mobility and core strength. You can even skip the cart and get your steps in.
- Photography is a wonderful hobby to pick up for creative expression. However, hiking or walking to get to your favorite spot can boost your heart rate as well.
- Picnics are another great way to connect with friends outdoors. Packing a backpack with food on a trail or nature preserve can boost exertion.
The Best Indoor Activities for Seniors
Prefer to stay inside when the weather is too hot or too cold? Or perhaps you just prefer to participate in activities indoors due to respiratory concerns, physical challenges, or just a personal preference. The good news is that you can participate in plenty of activities that nurture your mind, spirit, and body while indoors.
Look for indoor activity options at your local senior center, library, or parks and recreation department. If you live in a senior living residence, you’ll be able to find plenty of indoor and outdoor activity options too; just check your residence’s life enrichment calendar and make an effort to get involved at least a few times per week.
- Indoor exercises, like group fitness classes or walking on an indoor track, can boost cardiovascular health and overall wellness without the added stress of battling the weather.
- New hobbies, like indoor pickleball, yoga, or mindfulness meditation, can be done indoors and are excellent options for caring for your body and mind. You can also meet lots of new friends by connecting with a group of people who share your interests.
- Creating art of any kind is guaranteed to help you learn something new and express yourself creatively, leaving you feeling proud and empowered. Don’t worry if you are a beginner – everyone has an inner artist ready to come out.
- Book clubs are excellent for meeting new friends and talking about shared passions. If you can’t find a book club near you, consider starting one on your own!
- Listen to a new podcast while taking a stroll on an indoor track, folding laundry, or completing household tasks. You can find podcasts on any topic and listen on your phone, computer, or virtual assistant device.
At Legend Senior Living, associates are dedicated to finding activities you enjoy. Our Life Enrichment teams are there to create an event calendar full of activities you already love and even activities you might want to try. Learn more about our dedication to healthy recreation and socialization, and then schedule your visit to a residence near you. We will see you soon!
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