Whether facing health or mobility problems, or simply aging gracefully, there’s no doubt that growing older can be a battle. On top of that, the older we get, the more time we have on our hands.
As such, it’s important to find ways to keep your senior loved ones engaged and thriving, both within and outside of their home environment. This season, rely on fall activities for seniors that create situations that allow them to keep their mind sharp, enhance their physical fitness or enjoy the positive emotions that stem from social interaction.
Explore some of the most exciting things for seniors to do this fall, all with a seasonal twist.
Pumpkin Painting
Carving pumpkins may require a little more physical effort than seniors are able to put in, but there’s a new fall trend that is perfect for the elderly. Rather than opening up the top and scooping the insides out before slicing out chunks of the pumpkin, grab some paint and use it to decorate the gourd with the design of your choosing. From spooky scenes and classic jack-o-lantern faces to pop culture references and autumn-inspired patterns, you can really get creative and make it your own with endless possibilities.
Apple Picking
When caring for aging parents, one of the most exciting ways to explore the world is with the whole family. Gather everyone together for a special fall outing to an apple orchard. This quintessential autumn activity provides a chance for seniors to enjoy physical activity (tailored to their ability level), teamwork, stunning scenery, fresh air and time spent with loved ones.
Baking with Fall Flavors
One of the best fall activities for seniors is baking. From flaky pies to moist muffins and cookies that melt in your mouth, there is something so exciting about tasting something that you just created from scratch. Incorporate fall flavors, like apple or pumpkin, to give the project seasonality, but keep the focus on the process. Locating and measuring out the ingredients will keep your loved one’s mind active.
Seasonal Gardening
A laid-back and tranquil activity, gardening is something that can be done year-round with very exciting results. Add a touch of fall to your garden by incorporating produce that will be harvested in the latter part of the year, like apples, squash, leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. This can also be a great task for families looking for private caregivers, as FirstLight Home Care professionals can supervise or assist when family members aren’t around to do so.
Leaf Peeping Walks
As the leaves change and add color to the world, explore your neighborhood or a local park while looking for vibrant fall foliage. This is a great way to get some gentle exercise and fresh air while adding some excitement to the experience. Embrace the deep reds, golden yellows and rusty oranges while leaf peeping, a beloved pastime all over the country but especially in New England or the Pacific Northwest.
Fall Picnic
Delve into relaxation with a seasonal picnic, one of the best fall activities for seniors. A picnic is the perfect way to get your loved one out of the house for some fresh air and inspiration from nature. This is especially wonderful for those who don’t have great mobility, as it doesn’t require much movement upon arrival. Gather dishes that feature the flavors of fall to make it extra special or look for colored leaves as you dine and unwind.
Fun and Games
Games can be one of the most thrilling pastimes — and they’re something the entire family can enjoy together, no matter the ages. Plus, games can serve as a stepping stone to companionship for lonely elderly, as well as a way to keep their memory sharp. Play board games or card games, or get active with a round of cornhole or oversize Jenga. Crosswords, Sudoku or jigsaw puzzles can also be fun to complete together. Or add a touch of autumn by creating your own game, like a scent competition where participants must identify mystery smells like cinnamon or pumpkin.
Companionship for Fall Activities
Sometimes it can be hard to find the time to dedicate to our elderly loved ones. Whether navigating a demanding career, raising children or dealing with something else entirely, we may not be able to pencil in these affairs as much as we would like to. However, these fall activities for seniors can be crucial for their social, emotional, mental and even physical health.
While you may not be able to be there for each and every activity, don’t limit your loved one. Families looking for private caregivers should turn to FirstLight Home Care – we will be by your side every step of the way with professionals who are well-equipped to provide companionship, care, comfort and more. Get started today — inquire about a personalized quote or call 844-879-7300 to talk with your local FirstLight team.