While kids certainly eagerly anticipate summer break and all of the fun it involves, summertime doesn’t need to lose its enjoyment as we age! At Grace Home Care, providers of Topeka respite care, we love helping older adults take pleasure in life to the fullest, and have developed the following list of some of the top activities for seniors that are guaranteed to lead to making fond memories for the entire family!
- The Great Outdoors: There’s nothing that says “summer” like the natural beauty to be discovered at every turn this time of year. Keep in mind the need to prevent heat-related issues by getting out early or later in the day when the sun isn’t as intense, keeping plenty of water on hand, and making sure the senior remains cool and comfortable in the shade. Then head out as a family to do a little fishing, gardening, take a dip in the pool, or even just relax with some good books and some fresh summer fruit. Include the younger ones with some good old-fashioned fun: fly a kite, have a watermelon seed spitting contest, catch fireflies in a jar. Encourage the senior to reminisce about what he/she enjoyed the most about the summer season as a child, and recreate some of those experiences for the next generation!
- Keep It Cool: Organize some fun indoor outings for occasions when the temperatures soar. Indoor play centers are great fun, not only for kids but for older individuals to enjoy seeing the young ones at play and engaging in conversations with friends and family. The whole family can also enjoy taking in a play, visiting a museum or the library, or even just window shopping at the mall and sharing lunch together.
- Make a Difference: Perhaps there’s nothing that lifts a senior’s sense of purpose and self-worth more than volunteering for a cause that’s close to his or her heart. Decide together as a family on a charitable benefactor – the neighborhood pet rescue center, library, veterans’ center, nursing home – the sky’s the limit. Then find out how you can make a difference in the lives of others in your community.
For additional summertime activities for seniors, call on the home care professionals at Grace Home Care. Our friendly and fully trained caregivers are on hand to make sure that seniors are able to continue to be actively engaged in the world around them, and to live life to the fullest. Providing the Topeka respite care families trust, Grace Home Care is here for you and your senior loved ones. Contact us any time at 785.286.CARE and let us know how we can help.