6 Autumn Activities For Seniors
The fall season is a favorite for many aging adults. It signals a time of changing weather and the beginning of the holiday season. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the fresh fall breezes, the bright and beautiful colors, and all the seasonal things like pumpkin spice everything.
There are also many activities associated with the season that is not only fun but beneficial for older adults because they help keep their minds and bodies active. By maintaining an active life, seniors can enjoy better health, as some benefits of being active include promoting cardiovascular health, improving sleep and mental health, as well as having more energy.
And let’s not forget that it is the perfect opportunity for caregivers to spend time with their aging loved ones and enjoy the benefits stated before as well. Everyone involved can find enjoyment in doing something out of the routine that a lot of times we create without noticing it.
We’ve rounded up some fun activity ideas that you and your loved one can do during this cozy season.
6 Fall Activities for Seniors
Attend Harvest Fall Festivals
Harvesting is a seasonal activity that a lot of people do around the country. This is a way of being active and having physical activity, and at the end of the day, you can turn your harvest into different seasonal dishes that all your loved ones can enjoy.
We know that these activities may be hard to find in the Miami area, so here are some options you can consider for this year:
- The Little Farm Fall Festival
- Tinez Farm Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch
- Harvest in Miami
- The Berry Farm: Harvest Festival
Make Decorations
Fall is one of the seasons where you can make signature decorations and get in the mood for the fall holidays. Try making fall leaf garlands with paper or go outside to collect fallen leaves to transform them into beautiful DIY decorations. This will not only be fun, but it will allow you and your loved one to stay mentally and physically active.
Pumpkin Painting
Pumpkins are the staple fruit of the season, not only to create delicious dishes but also as decorations. Typically, people tend to carve pumpkins, but if your loved one struggles with arthritis or doesn’t feel comfortable doing it, painting is a great alternative, and it serves as a creative outlet.
Have a Fall Picnic
Since the weather is starting to cool off a little, having an outdoor activity is appealing to everyone. Grab your favorite food and drinks and wander into your backyard or nearby park. It is the perfect opportunity to spend time with your loved one, enjoy the landscape, and catch some air.
Keep in mind these tips to keep your aging loved one safe during your picnic:
- Choose a shady spot: While it is true that the weather during fall gets cooler in Florida, it is still important to avoid heat-related illnesses, so finding a spot that’s out of direct sunlight is crucial.
- Pack healthy foods: Instead of offering processed foods to the seniors, make sure to bring healthier options like vegetables and fruits.
- Don’t forget your first-aid kit: It is important to be prepared for any mishap, especially when seniors are present.
- Keep an eye on your loved one: Make sure to check on your elderly loved one to ensure they are comfortable, hydrated, and overall having a good time.
- Check the picnic site: When planning a picnic, make sure the outdoor area is accessible and appropriate for your loved one’s needs.
Bird Watching
This activity is a great activity that seniors can enjoy all year round. However, this season brings a unique flair to the action due to fall bird migration. From late July through October, South Florida becomes a roller-coaster ride of excitement as shorebirds migrating from the Arctic Tundra, Great Plains, and New England fly by in waves.
Whether you do this in your backyard, local park, or on walking trails, go outside and enjoy the time with your loved one.
Make Seasonal Treats
Food is a unique way of bonding. You can make your favorite food with a seasonal touch, like using apples and pumpkins.
When baking or cooking your favorite treats, keep in mind these healthy eating tips for seniors:
- Create snacks using foods from different food groups, this will provide various benefits. Choosing foods that contain protein and carbohydrates creates filling snacks.
- Opt for whole foods over processed foods whenever possible.
- Pay attention to portion size, and make sure not to substitute a meal.
Keep Your Loved One Safe With a Caregiver
While all these activities are great and safe for the elderly, having an extra set of hands may be important to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that your loved one is comfortable and safe, with everything they may need considering their necessities.
An easy and responsible way to do this is with the help of a companion or Certified Nursing Assistant who has the knowledge and preparation to take care of your loved one. When planning your fall activities, consider contacting 24/7 Nursing Care to help you take care of the seniors in your life.
We are a leading provider of nursing care and companion referral services for individuals who want to remain independent and outside of a nursing home setting. Whether you live at home, in retirement communities, or someplace similar, our care providers will come to you instead. For a free in-home consultation, call us today! Miami-Dade County (786) 518-3622 or Broward County (954) 949-1332