Eight Gentle Activities That Promote Social Engagement for Seniors During the Summer

Summer is a time most people associate with relaxing, fun, and being outdoors. For many seniors, though, it’s important that whatever they do outside is safe for them to do and doesn’t lead to heat-related illnesses, sunburn, or other safety issues. If those activities can also boost social engagement, that’s even better. Companion care at home can participate in a lot of these activities with seniors, giving them someone to spend time with and have a good time around.

Nature Strolls

Spending time out in nature is fun and relaxing for just about anyone, especially seniors. Taking short nature strolls helps seniors to keep moving in a way that shouldn’t be taxing on them at all. If seniors are uncomfortable or unable to walk for long, then modifying these strolls so they’re safer and easier is a good idea. Companion caregivers can walk along with seniors, helping them stay safe and engaging them in conversation.

Outdoor Picnics

A picnic is another fun way to spend time outside in nature. Finding a shaded park or even taking a picnic out onto a back porch or under a patio umbrella can be really enjoyable. Home care providers can help seniors put together a meal or snack that is easy to eat outside.

Bird Watching

Bird watching is something seniors can do inside or outdoors, whichever they prefer. There are tons of bird identification apps, and some even help to identify birds by song or allow users to keep track of the birds in their areas. This helps seniors to stay connected with the world around them and stimulates the brain.

Arts and Crafts

Anything creative is great for people of all ages, but especially seniors. Finding new ways to express themselves and create something beautiful is a great way to pass the time. And with companion care at home available, seniors have someone there to talk with and share laughs with as they make something.

Music and Dance

Music is a powerful connecting device and having music and dance parties is a great activity for summer. In the morning or late afternoon, outside might be the perfect spot. But during the day, short dance sessions can be a way to get moving and have fun.

Sharing Memories and Stories

Seniors often have a lot of memories and stories to share. When they have someone there with them to listen, like companion care at home, they have a ready outlet for all the stories they want to share. Companion caregivers have a lot of experience encouraging seniors to talk, which helps to stimulate their brains but also builds rapport and trust.

Gardening

When most people think about gardening, they might think about all of the big projects that gardeners might tackle. But it can also be a small, simple hobby. Container gardening, arranging cut flowers, or simply enjoying some time in the backyard are all ways for seniors to enjoy gardening activities in a safe way.

Book Clubs and Reading Groups

There are also plenty of book clubs and reading groups that might meet in person or virtually online. These can be a fantastic way for seniors to connect with other readers and learn about new books they might want to read. Companion caregivers can help with transportation or even assist with getting online to book club meetings.

Summer doesn’t have to mean that seniors are cooped up alone. With companion care at home, there are lots of gentle ways that seniors can enjoy social engagement and the warmer weather.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Companion Care at Home in West Sacramento, CA, please contact the caring staff at Aging Assistant today at (916) 897-4752