5 Summer Activities to Keep Your Aging Loved One Healthy (And Happy)
There’s something special about summer—the smell of a neighbor’s barbecue, the sound of cheers from a little league game, and the simple joy of longer, brighter days. After months of cold and confinement, the season offers a welcome opportunity to get outside and reconnect.
For older adults, however, summer can be a bit more complicated. High temperatures, humidity, and crowded spaces can pose real safety concerns, leading some aging loved ones to avoid going outdoors altogether. With thoughtful planning and an awareness of seasonal risks, though, summer can still be both safe and deeply enjoyable.
In fact, spending time outdoors can play a meaningful role in supporting physical and emotional well-being. Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which supports bone strength, immune function, and brain health. Warmer weather also makes it easier to stay active and socially connected—two essential components of healthy aging.
If you’re looking for ways to help your loved one make the most of the season, here are five summer activities that promote both health and happiness:
1. Walking: For those who enjoy the outdoors, walking (especially in the summertime) offers a gentle yet effective way to stay active. It’s a low-impact activity that can support cardiovascular health, improve mobility, and boost mood. The beauty of walking is its flexibility—start with short walks down the block, and gradually explore longer or slightly more challenging paths based on your loved one’s comfort level. You can make some fun out of your daily walks by switching things up: take the scenic route, listen to your loved one’s favorite tunes, stop for a cup of coffee, or even bring your fuzzy friend along!
2. Gardening: If your loved one is looking for an outdoor activity, that also requires some thought, care and creativity, starting their own garden is the perfect summer hobby! Whether planting flowers or tending to a small vegetable patch, gardening encourages strength, flexibility, and coordination. It also stimulates cognitive function through planning and problem-solving, while fostering a sense of purpose and accomplishment as plants begin to grow and thrive.
3. Swimming: Water aerobics is one of the best physical activities for seniors, given its ability to exercise the muscles, lungs and heart without affecting their joints. Swimming can also target core and stabilizing muscles, helping improve mobility and balance, increasing their independence. Best of all, swimming offers a refreshing way for your loved one to stay cool and relaxed during hot summer days.
4. Barbequing: Summer and BBQ go hand in hand—making it the perfect next hobby for your loved one! Not only does it help keep them moving, but the planning, prepping and cooking of a meal requires some serious brain power, stimulating their cognitive function. Barbequing can also encourage more social engagement with friends and family, reducing isolation and the risk of anxiety or depression.
5. Fishing: While reeling and casting provide some light cardio activity, the greater benefit of fishing lies in its ability to reduce stress and create a sense of purpose. Fishing can also be accessible for just about anyone, making it the perfect group activity to stimulate engagement amongst your loved one and their peers. Consider tagging along if you’re looking for ways to make more meaningful memories with your loved one—you may get a grilled fish filet meal out of it, if you’re lucky!
The Bottom Line
There’s no right or wrong hobby to keep your loved one active and engaged this summer. But if you’re having trouble deciding what to do, start by listening to your loved one to learn their strengths, interests and challenges. For example, if your loved one has mobility trouble, but enjoys sitting in the park, you could suggest they try birdwatching, or photography. With your encouragement and support, your loved one can embrace the season with confidence—because it’s never too late to try something new!
If your aging loved one is ready to thrive in their next stage of life, Open Arms can help find the best quality care to fit their needs. Schedule a free in-home assessment or call (847) 272-4997 today.