12 Springtime Activities for Seniors

Springtime is a favorite season for seniors because many of them are retired and have spent the winter being cooped-up indoors. There’s nothing like breathing fresh air, feeling the warmth of the sun on the skin and soaking in a little Vitamin D to renew the spirit and enhance quality of life. Being closer to nature, going on outings and socializing help break the monotony of daily living that can often be boring for seniors.

Springtime Activities for Seniors

Taking some time to partake in fun springtime activities can help to not only improve cognitive function but happiness as well, according to the National Institute of Health. Even if mobility is a problem, you can choose adventures and venues that cater to the handicap and are wheelchair accessible.

Here are a few favorite springtime activities for seniors that are good for the soul:

1. Choose a local park or nature trail for walks.

Many landmarks, local parks and even nature trails are appropriate for seniors (and are wheelchair accessible)! Do a little research ahead of time to find out what outdoor nature destination is a good choice for your loved one.

2. Visit a farmers market.

There’s nothing like fresh fruits, vegetables and local arts and crafts to inspire elders. Getting out into the fresh air with other adults, children and often pets is also beneficial for seniors. It might be fun to choose a recipe before the outing to help inspire the palette with organic food as you peruse the market.

3. Partake in spring cleaning.

When there’s light outside coming in through the windows, clutter and dust are suddenly visible. It’s always healthy to do a little spring cleaning to create a comfortable ambiance. You might even want to put up a spring wreath and other fresh decorations. Here are some decorating tips to help with the transformation.

4. Go fishing.

If your elderly loved one is mobile, you can venture to many fishing spots, but even those who are wheelchair bound can cast from a pier or bridge over a creek or river. Peruse your area for the perfect fishing spot.

5. Enjoy tourist attractions.

Whether it’s local landmarks, historical sites or sporting events, tourist attractions are good for the mind and for combating cabin fever. Let your senior choose their destination.

6. Eat outdoors at a fancy restaurant.

Good company, food and a fancy ambiance are all a recipe for success for your elder. Satisfy their palate and take time for quality bonding.

7. Visit a nursery.

Nurseries are an excellent place for seniors to visit because they can partake in their indoor and outdoor plant preferences, which adds to the excitement factor. Beautifying both indoors and outdoors provides some color and enjoyable ambiance for your senior.

8. Go on a picnic.

Pack a delicious lunch with a comfortable blanket and enjoy the outdoors, picnic style. You can bring binoculars for bird watching, books to read, or cards for some outdoor game-fun.

9. Invest in a bird feeder for bird watching.

Birds provide beautiful visuals and entertainment for seniors, and springtime bird chirping signals the opportune time to invest in a feeder. Whether blue jays or hummingbirds, bird feeders attract nature to your yard. You and your elder can even build your own for a little extra fun.

10. Watch the Food Network for savory spring recipes.

The Food Network offers great cooking shows and recipe ideas for springtime rejuvenation and healthy living. Watch a show with your loved one and compliment the meal with one of these delicious water-infused recipes.

11. Plant an herb garden.

To go along with healthy eating, a modest herb garden provides not only gardening fun, but also healthy and tasty ingredients for your favorite dishes.

12. Go see a show.

Whether a local theatre production or a fancy opera; getting dressed up and having a fun evening watching a show adds not only a little fun to senior-life, but also some culture.

This article was written by Dana Larsen from A Place for Mom