As the summer months settle in, it’s time to take the activities outside or to start new ones to boost your physical and mental health.
Whether it’s a loved one who is a senior or if you’re a senior yourself, here are five healthy ways to take advantage of summer.
1) Head outside for a walk or jog
Exercise is essential for health, especially as you age. It boosts your mind and body, with studies linking it to longevity.
Not only that, but the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says your immune system gets a boost from a vigorous walk or similar exercising. You also get an added benefit to your memory and creativity.
If you do head outside for a walk, make sure you do it in the cooler part of the day so you don’t get overheated. A group walk is a safe bet, or you may want to walk alone to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
2) Join the one in seven Americans with this one thing
In the U.S., an estimated 45 million people enjoy the hobby of bird watching. It’s a year-round hobby that they say is fun and relaxing at the same time, while carrying a bit of adventure in trying to spot and identify different birds.
You can try bird watching any time of the day, but mornings are probably best while it’s still cool and the birds are out starting their day. Learning about the different songbirds and identifying them by sound is a fun entry way into bird watching.
Keep an eye out for other wildlife such as rabbits, squirrels, or even deer. Depending on the environment, you might have a wildlife surprise that awaits you.
3) Take a dip in the pool
Who doesn’t like going for a swim in the summer? You can cool off in the summer heat and get exercise without working up a sweat.
For those who may struggle with arthritis or stiff joints, the pool might be what you’re looking for because it’s easy on the joints while still a good form of exercise. Whether swimming, “running” in the pool, or with water aerobics, you’ll get the benefits of a boost to bone density and helping lower your pain with time in the pool.
4) Boost your mind with reading or puzzles
After your workouts, or before your workouts even, find a good book and relax by reading out in nature. On the patio or porch in the cool of the morning or in the shade of evening, a book is a healthy way to exercise your mind.
Joining a book club can help you get started, or pick a subject or genre you like. Other options include puzzles, crosswords, or other word games to exercise your mind, boost your concentration, and work on your memory.
5) Explore a new hobby
Kickstart summer by trying something new! Explore your creative side by trying painting, or take up knitting or sewing.
Trying a new craft or hobby is fun and rewarding. It’s also a way to boost your mood, stimulate your senses, and even meet new people who can give you tips and pointers.
A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT
Senior living communities like Auburn Hill Senior Living are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life.
At Auburn Hill Senior Living, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!
If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a tour or download a brochure today!