7 Summer activities for older adults and their caregivers

7 Summer activities for older adults and their caregivers

Now that COVID-19 vaccines are readily available, it’s becoming safer to do more activities this summer. After more than a year of social distancing, getting out of the house, socializing and doing new and different activities can be a welcome change. Older loved ones have the opportunity to reunite and spend more time with immediate family, especially grandkids and adult children.

Here are some ideas for activities older adults can do with their caregivers this summer: 

• Play games. Take your card game outside or play a round of cornhole. Mental activities – such as board games and reading – have been shown to help older adults stay mentally sharp and lower their risk of dementia. 
• Go for a swim. If it’s safe for the person you’re caring for, consider visiting a nearby pool, such as in their neighborhood or at a recreational center. Many facilities offer water aerobics or other older adult-friendly activities. Also, swimming is a wonderful form of low-impact exercise to support bone, joint and heart health. Swimming in the summer create wonderful memories, especially with grandchildren. 
• Read. Read a book together and discuss it when you’re finished. Or look for a book club they can join. If they’re visually impaired, consider an audiobook or large-print book. By reading, it allows a time to rest, relax, and enjoy the summer.
• Go for a walk. Take a stroll during the cooler part of the day. Bring along a bottle of water too. Walking can help seniors with generic exercise, as well as bone health and muscle health. 
• Go for a picnic. Pack your favorite drinks and sandwiches, and bring fold-out chairs for a comfortable seating option. Make a day out of it! Invite friends, family, and colleagues to enjoy the warm summer day and catch up after a year and a half of social distancing. 
• Catch a sporting event. Attend a professional baseball game or their grandchild’s soccer game. With sports back in the mix after COVID-19, what better way to spend a relaxing summer day than watching your favorite team play the sport you love so much with the people closest to you. 
• Attend a community event together. Check out the flea market, craft or garden fair, or other festivals in your area. Mingle, explore, and enjoy the festivities that the summer has to offer. 

Summer safety tips for older adults

No matter where you find yourself this summer, it’s important to protect older adults from the sun and heat:

• Keep bottled water with you and encourage them to sip it regularly. 
• Keep them safe from the sun with sunscreen, loose-fitting or sun-protective clothing, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. 
  

Looking for a caregiver to spend time with your loved one this summer? CareLinx caregivers are trained, pre-vetted and background-checked to ensure that your loved one receives high-quality care personalized to their needs. Find a CareLinx caregiver near you.