Warm August evenings in Canada are the perfect time to savour the last flicker of summer heat before the familiar honking of migrating geese fill the skies.
Summertime livin’ is easy – and fun – when you join exciting summer activities at your retirement community. Read on to learn what our talented Health and Wellness Coordinators have been up to this August. Hint: it’s not just bingo!
Summer Activities for Seniors in Assisted Living
Sing Round the Campfire!
A study found that singing was instrumental in improving the brain functionality of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and aphasia. However, singing holds far more benefits to senior health!
Singing can provide seniors with the opportunity to network and engage socially. Singing is also a great aerobic activity that produces oxygen in the blood, improves circulation and deep breathing, reduces stress and induces “feel good” hormones.
Beacon Heights senior residence in Ottawa are experts at campfire sing-alongs! Roasting marshmallows, balloon tennis, and a drum circle are great ways to round out a popular day.
Hit the Right Note with Drums
Drums date back to 600 BC. Since then, drums have been used by many cultures in rituals, gatherings, and for recreational purposes. Of the many benefits of drumming are:
- Improve social cohesion
- Reduce tension, anxiety and negative feelings
- Incite laughter and good humour
- Encourage mindfulness
- Generate positive energy
The Cardio Drumming program, ‘Just Beat It!’, is so popular that older adults in our residence rush down 15 minutes early to reserve their drum!
The Greatest Game Ever Played
Seine River is the place to be this summer! The 3-hole golf event is always a huge hit at this senior community in Winnipeg, MB where residents enjoy chipping, putting, and a putter ball competition. With prizes for winners, there are also, snacks, drinks, and music for residents to enjoy!! Everyone has so much fun!!
Shoot Some Hoops
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world and one of the most widely viewed. An excellent physical activity, it is also wonderful fun! At All Seniors Care, we think that you’re never to old to shoot some hoops!!
During the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, residents participated in a National Event that included a treat – basketball! The game was such a big success at Seine River Retirement Residence, that seniors were excited to see the game remain on the activity schedule afterwards.
Go for a Swim!
Summer activities for seniors that take place in water reduce the risk of injury by lessening joint impact. Water-based summer activities for seniors are also a great exercise option for those with arthritis or stiff joints. Seniors can float, swim, or take part in a light water aerobics class.
At Fox Hollow in London, ON, our pool is becoming more popular by the day!! Residents are thoroughly enjoying the pool, and it’s reopening after the pandemic restrictions has been great for morale. Even those not participating in direct programming love seeing their peers having fun in the pool!
Host an Ultimate Outdoor Summer Camp!
On August 17th and 18th, 2021 seniors tap into their inner child for two days packed full of fun! In true summer camp style, seniors rolled up their sleeves to tie-dye pillowcases, made friendship bracelets, and played games. They challenged themselves physically and mentally before kicking back for a night of s’mores and ghost stories. Follow us on social media to see pictures of all the fun! Halls and grounds filled with the sound of laughter as families joined loved ones on Family Day for a medal ceremony and entertainment.
Tend Your Garden
Between digging, weeding, and cutting plants, gardening is one of the best summer activities for seniors because it is exercise disguised as leisure. Plus, seniors can socialize as they plant or tend to flowers and vegetables.
Residents in independent living can use the produce in their own kitchens, or partner with the foodservice team to incorporate the fruits (and vegetables) of their labour into the wider chef’s menu!
Read about the 6 benefits of gardening for seniors!
Plan for an older adult’s summertime needs
Older adults have different needs during the summer than other age groups. For example, they are at increased risk of dehydration and sunburn. If you’ll be enjoying outdoor activities with an older adult this year, be sure to take the following precautions:
- Plan outside activities during cooler hours (between ten and four are generally the warmest).
- Have your loved one drink plenty of fluids. Non-alcoholic and caffeine-free beverages are the most hydrating.
- Replace any lost electrolytes and potassium. Electrolytes can be found in sports drinks, and many fruits and vegetables contain potassium.
- Apply (and re-apply) sunscreen as needed.
- Wear insect repellent, if necessary.
Also, certain medications don’t mix well with the sun, so speak with your physician about any potential concerns. They may want you to take extra precautions such as sticking to the shade or wearing a floppy hat. Read more about how you can beat the heat!
If you are unsure of how to best help an aging loved one, the trained and compassionate staff at All Seniors Care is here to help. There are plenty of other ways that we are redefining senior living and making retirement more enjoyable. If you’re interested in joining one of our homes or suggesting that someone you know join us, you should click here to get more details about our Hamilton residences and other retirement residences near you.
You don’t have to just reminisce about the days of summer camp with new friends, warm sunshine and outdoor games. You can still live it! Come to ASC and bring those memories back to life.
Writer: Julianna McLeod