Outdoor Activities for Your Elderly Loved Ones

By Donna Stark

While parts of the country are dealing with extreme weather and digging out from the snow, other parts are experiencing mild temperatures and beautiful days. If you and your elderly loved ones are fortunate enough to live in an area where you can enjoy the outdoor weather without piling on layers and layers of clothes, there is no reason to stay inside. But, your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic understand that there may be some physical limitations to contend with. So, to help you out, they have put together a list of joint-friendly activities that can be fun for everyone of all ages! Take a look.

Head Out for a Walk

There is no easier way to get the body moving than to head outdoors for a stroll. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help reduce stress, improve heart health, increase balance, and reduce the risk of serious health conditions. And if there are dogs in the picture, bring them along! Studies show that people who bond with their pets are generally happier (and the dogs will love the exercise too).

Enjoy a Good Book

Don't forget that in addition to working on everyone's physical health, you need to focus on their mental health as well! Encourage your loved ones to grab their favorite books and find a sunny spot to sit in. Reading is a great way to relax the body while also giving the brain a decent workout! 

Take the Grandkids to the Park

Up for a game of tag? Or some sidewalk chalk? Next to pets, children can also bring a load of happiness into your life, so why don't you take the grandparents and the grandkids to the park for some rambunctious fun! Who knows? You may even find your loved one swinging higher than all the kids there.

Design and Plant a Garden

Whether your loved one enjoys beautiful flowers on the table or bowls of delicious fruits and vegetables, there's a garden that can be designed for it! Gardening is an activity that can increase Vitamin D exposure, boost moods, improve physical health, and combat loneliness. It's never too late to discover your green thumb!

Go Fishing

Are you looking for an activity that encourages relaxation but is also sprinkled with some excitement? Fishing is your answer then! Fishing is a great way to get that extra dose of Vitamin D, reduce stress, and give the body a serious upper-body workout (if the fish are biting). It also encourages good balance and connection with others.

Outdoor Activities for Everyone

If you are fortunate enough to live in a warmer climate, take advantage of it as much as you can! Get yourself and your elderly loved ones outside for improved mental and physical health today!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Surprise, Ariz.