Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of the summer season, but it’s hardly time to start staying indoors. Being active outside is an excellent way to breathe fresh air, try something new, and even improve your health. Recent studies have shown that spending at least two hours in nature can significantly improve one’s health and well-being.
Celebrate your long Labor Day weekend by going outside alone, with friends, or with family. Need inspiration? Here are a few of our favorite ideas to get you started.
Outdoor Activities for Seniors
You don’t need to invest in special equipment to take part in some of our outdoor activities. In fact, most of these activities can be done solo or in a group setting. If you find that you don’t know how to get involved in one that sounds interesting to you, check out your local park district or senior center to see if you can join a group.
- Hiking or taking a nature walk around a new (or favorite) trail
- Bird-watching near a body of water
- Using a metal detector to look for “treasures” in a local forest preserve
- Bicycling
- Kayaking or canoeing
- Trying an outdoor yoga or meditation class
- Gardening
- Cooking outdoors
- Swimming or participating in water aerobics
Activities for the Whole Family
If you are expecting visitors for a Labor Day celebration, or are just looking for something special to do with someone you love, here are a few ideas that can please almost any crowd as long as you do them together.
- Painting rocks with affirming phrases or pictures, then hiding them in a local park
- Watching a favorite movie outdoors
- Working on a family scrapbook full of photos and memories
- Going fishing (don’t forget a little friendly competition for most fish caught)
- Preparing and then enjoying a picnic together
- Going on a nature scavenger hunt to search for items like acorns, pinecones, and maple leaves
- Planning a daytrip to a favorite local beach
- Bringing board games outside to play in the shade
- Making homemade lemonade or smoothies
- Eating a popsicle or ice cream sundae
- Playing horseshoes
- Pointing out fireflies
- Stargazing or using a telescope for a closer look at outer space
- Decorating cupcakes
- Making strawberry shortcake
- Watching family movies while eating popcorn
- Attending an outdoor concert
- Watching fireworks
- Visiting a local farmers market
- Taking the kids to a carnival (and enjoying some cotton candy)
Staying Safe
No matter how you plan on spending your Labor Day weekend, be sure to do it safely. Seniors can face increased health risks amid certain weather conditions, especially those related to heat and the sun. If you are spending time outdoors, ensure that you are wearing sunscreen and protecting yourself with a wide-brimmed hat.
Only head outside if the weather is safely cool enough, and most importantly, drink lots of water. Dehydration can happen quickly for seniors and have serious consequences such as urinary tract infections, acute confusion, or unexpected trips to the hospital. Choose water over soda or alcoholic beverages to keep your hydration on point.
If you will be traveling for the holiday, ensure a healthy trip by packing your medications in your carry-on luggage. Double-check your travel itinerary and call ahead if you need any modifications to make your trip more accessible.
Does all this talk about staying active and outdoors make you feel like you could be missing out on some chances to connect with other seniors? A senior living community could be an excellent choice for you! Senior living communities are bustling with activity, and they can be the ideal place to meet new friends.
Consider seeing what senior living can look like by scheduling your tour of The Solana East Cobb. Until then, enjoy your Labor Day!