Exploring nature and participating in outdoor activities are not only fun, but also have mental and physical health benefits. As the temperatures cool, you can begin to consider safely venturing outdoors in your area. Try to avoid the hottest part of the day by going in the early morning or evening. Here are some ideas to consider, and don’t be afraid to try something new!
Examples of Outdoor Activities
Walking
The great thing about walking is that it is safe and can be done almost anywhere. Choose a pleasant outdoor area with trees, flowers, and foliage. Be mindful of weather conditions.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be an exciting and enjoyable activity anywhere you live. You don’t need any training, but you will want a good pair of binoculars. This website will give you some birding hotspots to scope out. This is an excellent guide to beginning birding if you would like more guidance.
Parks
Every community has parks and many have community gardens. Parks are a great place to walk, sit on a bench, have lunch, or enjoy birdwatching.
Stargazing
Stargazing can be fun and informative if you are in an area with few lights. This free app for iPhone can help you identify constellations and stars.
Outdoor concerts
Review your local events calendar for outdoor concerts. If possible, plan on going with a group to enjoy the outdoors and music together. If you live in senior living, suggest outdoor concerts to your recreation director or get a group together yourself.
Volunteer activities
Volunteer activities in your community could include park cleanups, tree planting, or assistance with community gardens.
Mini-Golf
Mini-golf is a low-impact, fun sport that can improve coordination and provide the opportunity for socialization.
Picnics
Invite friends or family to a picnic at a local park, beach area, or garden. Ask everyone to contribute a food item
Fishing
Fishing is a relaxing activity at a lake, pond, or river. Fishing requires coordination, patience, and flexibility.
More physical activities
For those who enjoy more robust activities, consider pickleball, bocce ball, badminton, croquet, etc. However, take care not to injure yourself. Although wildly popular, pickleball can lead to significant injuries.
Benefits of Outdoor Activities
Outdoor activities have many of the same benefits as indoor activities and additional ones. Here are some of the benefits of outdoor activities.
Improved physical health
Outdoor activities encourage movement, which can improve endurance, balance, and flexibility. Exposure to the outdoors can also lower blood pressure. Sunlight helps regulate the body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep.
Enhanced mental health
Outdoor activities can improve mood by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression by releasing endorphins. Spending time outdoors has also been found to enhance memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
Social engagement
Group outdoor activities provide the opportunity to engage with others, reducing loneliness and isolation.
Precautions in the Outdoors
You can enjoy the outdoors with little to worry about as long as you take some precautions.
- Avoid Heat. Heat kills more people than all other natural disasters. Even on a short walk, you can become overheated and dehydrated. Choose days and times when it isn’t too hot and bring water.
- Sun Protection. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and sunglasses.
- Monitor Weather Conditions. Thunderstorms with lightning can pop up anytime, so monitor the weather before you venture outdoors.
- Wear Proper Footwear. Avoid falls at all costs! Wear supportive, sturdy shoes with good grip. Ensure that your shoes fit you well and are comfortable.
- Avoid Overexertion. Pace yourself and take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue and over-exhaustion. Check with your doctor before beginning any new activity. Know your limits. Warm up before going out with light stretches to prevent muscle strain.
- Let Someone Know Where You Are Going. If going out alone, always tell someone where and when you are going. Let them know you will send a message when you return safely.
- Use Assistive Devices. Use walking aids such as a cane or walking poles if you struggle with balance issues. If you have a medical issue, consider a medical alert device in case of emergency.
- Choose Safe Areas. Choose areas you are familiar with. Be alert to your surroundings, including traffic and wildlife. Bring a smartphone in case you get lost.
- Avoid Insect Bites. Use insect repellent to prevent mosquitoes, ticks, and other disease-carrying insects. Check for ticks when you return home.
Enjoy All the Benefits the Outdoors has to Offer
If you do not go outdoors often, you may be pleasantly surprised at how uplifting it can be. Even a 15-minute walk outside will improve your mood and energize you. Consider inviting a friend to come along, but if they can’t, don’t let that stop you. Seek out all the opportunities for stimulation, relaxation, and well-being that the outdoors offers.
Contact Us
Ready to join a community that celebrates you every day? Contact us at The Chateau or Park Place to schedule a tour and see firsthand why so many active adults are proud to call Highlands Residential home. Our friendly staff is here to answer any questions and help you find the perfect place to start this exciting new chapter of your life.