6 Springtime Activities that Are Ideal for Older Adults
By Home Care Assistance Des Moines 9 am on
The spring months bring about warmer temperatures and the opportunity for elderly people to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Family caregivers should create as many safe activities and tasks for their senior loved ones as possible each week, especially things that get them out of the house and into the fresh air. Below are some fun activities seniors can do in the springtime and the benefits of each one.
1. Gardening
Gardening is an excellent way for seniors to soak up some vitamin D and lower their stress levels. While planting colorful flowers, nutritious foods, spices, and more, your loved one can strengthen his or her muscles, boost his or her critical thinking skills, and enjoy the warm spring air. Another benefit of gardening is its ability to help seniors shed calories as they pull weeds and plants. Some of the physical movements associated with gardening include bending, squatting, and stretching. Home caregivers can help seniors prepare nutritious meals with the vegetables and herbs they grow in the garden. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Des Moines respite care experts from Home Care Assistance are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.
2. Walking
After spending the majority of his or her time indoors due to cold temperatures, snow, and other weather conditions, your parent can go out for a quiet walk through the neighborhood when spring arrives. Walking is an excellent way to stay active and boost bone health. Going on a walk during the warm spring weather could relax your loved one’s mind and help him or her think about positive things, as opposed to issues that raise his or her blood pressure and anxiety levels.Engaging in fun outdoor activities is a great way for seniors to stay physically and mentally active and enhance their quality of life.Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
3. Swimming
Swimming in the community pool, at the local aquatic center, or in the pool in the backyard is something many seniors anticipate when spring arrives. The buoyancy of the water and the low impact of the exercise makes swimming safer than most physical activities. Your loved one can boost his or her cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of lung disease by taking up swimming.
4. Fishing
Spring is one of the best times of year for fishing. If your loved one enjoys this hobby, get his or her gear and equipment together and encourage him or her to catch some fish while bonding with you or a group of friends. The activity can alleviate mood swings and lower the heart rate.
5. Cycling
Seniors can take bike rides alone or join their children and grandkids on trips through the neighborhood. Many parks have bike trails the elderly can enjoy. Fun bike rides can promote weight loss, strengthen memory, boost heart health, and stave off diseases like cancer. When your loved one goes cycling, he or she can reduce stress and prevent depression.
6. Spring Cleaning
Getting rid of clutter in the home could lower your parent’s odds of falls and severe accidents and injuries. When it comes to spring cleaning, ask your parent to help out. Encourage your loved one to select easy-to-manage tasks based on his or her cognitive skills, muscle strength, and current health conditions. Spring cleaning is a purposeful activity that could boost your loved one’s mood and provide a sense of accomplishment. A professional caregiver can help your loved one participate in fun activities and allow you to take a break from your caregiving duties.In Home Care Des Moines, agenciescan be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (515) 264-2438 today.
