Best Daytime Activities for Seniors

It’s a widely known fact that seniors who remain active experience better physical, spiritual and mental health. Growing older doesn’t mean you have to just sit in your house or give up the things you love to do. You may not be strong enough to run a marathon or spend hours in the garden anymore, but most activities can be tailored to your abilities.

For seniors without an extended support system, finding things to do can be difficult. The good news is that there are dozens of safe, fun daytime activities that any senior can participate in, with or without a partner. Here are just a few ideas if you are a senior, or love a senior, and are looking for ways to remain active.

1. Walking

Studies have shown that walking daily can help to maintain heart, organ and joint health. It’s also a great way to get fresh air. When you get up in the morning, lace up your sneakers and head to your local park, your favorite beach or even go right outside your front door. You don’t need a special arena for walking — that’s one of the great things about the activity.

Keep in mind that spending time in extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for anyone. If you don’t want to go walking first thing in the morning, head to a local mall or other indoor facility where you can walk in the cool air. You should also check with your doctor to ensure walking for extended periods of time is safe for you.

2. Biking

Biking has become a popular pastime, with many cities building dedicated bike lanes on their streets. Look to see if there is a biking club in your area or any interesting places to pedal. There are thousands of miles of bike trails in the United States. If you are fortunate enough to have some of these trails near you, they offer a smooth ride any time of the morning or afternoon.

3. Fishing

Take a walk down to your local stream, river or lake with your fishing gear in tow. Spend a day sitting by the water trolling for fish (just be sure you have your hunting and fishing license). It’s a low-impact exercise that also has calming benefits. Sitting quietly, waiting for fish to bite the line can be incredibly relaxing. If fishing isn’t your thing, take a book and sit in the shade and read instead.

4. Classes

Many people don’t consider taking a class as a daytime activity, but it certainly is. If there is a local college or university nearby, consider enrolling in a class that offers something you’ve always wanted to learn more about. In many areas, seniors are offered discounted tuition rates, are able to audit classes or can enjoy a seniors-only class.

5. Music

Now that you are retired, there is no better time to learn to play the instrument you’ve always been fascinated with. Music feeds the brain. People who learn and play an instrument outperform others on cognitive tests. A local music store may offer discounted rates to beginning seniors, as may the local college. If you can’t find music lessons near you in a public setting, consider hiring a private instructor.

6. Volunteer

We all have causes that are near and dear to our hearts. Instead of spending time in your home, get out and volunteer. You can offer your time in the library, at hospitals or museums. Look for local volunteer opportunities that allow you to pursue your interests while helping others.

7. Journal

Remember when you were young and wondered about the lives of your grandparents and great grandparents? Perhaps they were immigrants and you wondered what life was like from them. You’ve always had a slight regret that they didn’t leave any memoirs or that you didn’t spend more time talking with them.

Don’t let your family feel this way. Start a journal and tell your family what your life was like before they knew you. Write out your favorite memories. What was a school day like for you? What was your first job? Think of all those questions you have about your family members you can’t speak to anymore and answer them about yourself for your loved ones.

8. Adult Day Care

Some people shy away from joining adult day care because they don’t know what it is. After all, you’re not a toddler. Don’t make this mistake. Adult day care is a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, participate in activities and learn new skills. This type of program is held by assisted living communities and offers local residents a chance to stay active, both physically and mentally. Members are often able to participate in the center’s daily activities and outings and then go home in the afternoon.

If you are interested in learning more about our assisted living community in Atlanta, reach out to our community members. We are happy to help you schedule an appointment to discuss how adult day care may fit your current physical and mental needs and desires. Call today and find out how you can start being more active tomorrow.