After a long winter, springtime is the ideal time to revitalize yourself. The beauty of this time of year is that our climate usually allows older Americans to begin getting outside to participate in some of their favorite activities. In addition to releasing stress, activities are a good way to build new relationships or discover a new hobby.
Keep in mind, our senior citizens sometimes have a difficult time with health and mobility issues, but our list of 7 activities are easily adaptable for people of all ages. In addition to getting much needed Vitamin D from the sunshine, the light exercise and social connections will promote healthy living by spending time outdoors.
Our significant 7 activities that we recommend are:
Fishing - Fishing is an awesome activity for all walks of life and almost every age group. The Health Fitness Revolution reported that fishing:
- Improves family bonding
- Boosts immune system
- Promotes relaxation
- Teaches self reliance
- Bestows patience
- Helps with balance
Caroline Hargrove has been fishing for over 20 years and she said during her recent fishing expedition, “It helps to clear my mind. I believe every senior citizen needs to take up fishing.”
On many occasions the fish are not biting, but the exercise and concentration it takes during that fun fishing experience will go a long way in helping extend quality of life.
Picnic - Going on a picnic is a great way to build social connections with friends and family. In addition to taking in the beautiful scenery, it is the perfect way to calm your mind while enjoying some delicious outdoor cooking.
Feeding Birds - Taking time to feed the birds can be the ideal pathway for seniors to have lower stress levels and boost their well-being. According to Consumer Affairs, a new study finds that bird watching can have a positive effect on mental health. Researchers in Great Britain found that people who can watch birds from their home have a lower risk of depression, stress and anxiety compared to people who live in less leafy area with fewer birds.
Enjoy a Park - Parks are natures attractions that provide many benefits for healthy living. In addition to the exercise attained from walking, the clean air and quite atmosphere are good for the body.
Gardening - If you have ever gardened before, you understand the many healthy benefits that are associated with gardening. By taking the time to plant a small vegetable plant and taking care of it daily until it begins bearing vegetables provides such an amazing sense of accomplishment. By making the special effort to garden, UNC Health Care indicates you will experience some of these healthy benefits:
- Muscle tone
- Burn calories
- Healthy heart
- Less stress and anxiety
- Better sleep
Walking around the neighborhood -Walking is a great way to improve your overall health and well-being. This exercise provides many benefits that result in healthier living. Some of the benefits include:
- Reducing risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Lowering hypertension, joint pain and cholesterol.
- Improving muscle strength and balance
Cookout with family - Cooking out helps build relationships with family and friends. Most of the time, people come together to enjoy delicious food and healthy conversations. If you are looking for ways to strengthen relationships, cooking out is definitely the way to go.
Anytime you take time to enjoy the outdoors, please keep in mind that you may need to check with your doctor first, apply sunscreen and make a special effort to stay hydrated. It is our wish for you to enjoy a long, healthy and vibrant life.