Looking for fun summer activities for the elderly? Keeping your loved ones active and engaged during the summer months can make all the difference in their well-being. With over 60 years of experience in personalised care, we know that summer is the perfect time to explore enjoyable activities that boost both physical and mental health.
Whether your loved one loves the outdoors or prefers a quieter, indoor activity, we’ve collected up 9 great ideas for summer fun that will make this season extra special.
1. Head to the beach for a relaxing day out
A visit to the beach is a great way to stimulate the senses and spend a day outdoors with family and friends. The UK boasts several accessible beaches that make seaside visits easier for everyone. For example, Brighton Beach offers ramp access, and the calm waters of West Wittering in West Sussex are perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. With plenty of space and accessible paths, these beaches provide the perfect setting for a relaxing escape this summer.
2. Visit a sensory garden
Sensory gardens are ideal for stimulating the senses and are particularly beneficial for those with visual or hearing impairments. For example, the Chelsea Physic Garden in London offers a beautifully landscaped historic garden where visitors can enjoy the flowers and immerse themselves in nature.
Another great option is the Hampstead Heath Sensory Garden, which is designed to be fully accessible, providing a peaceful space with sensory-rich plants and areas to sit and relax. These gardens are perfect for engaging with nature in a calming and restorative way.
3. Get active with water aerobics
Water aerobics is a fantastic low-impact summer activity for the elderly. It’s perfect for older adults looking to stay active and cool during the summer months. The buoyancy of the water helps reduce stress on joints, making it an excellent option for those with mobility challenges.
4. Painting & drawing outdoors
You don’t need to be an artist to enjoy painting and drawing outdoors. It’s a simple yet delightful way to spend a lovely afternoon in nature. For those who once loved art, bringing out paints and paper again can reignite joy and creativity. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and express yourself.
Ask family and friends if they have any spare art supplies they no longer need – many people have unused paints, brushes, and paper lying around, which could help you get started without any extra cost.
5. Enjoy a homemade picnic
Picnics are a wonderful way to enjoy the sunshine and spend quality time together. Whether you take your picnic to your local park, the beach or even your own garden, it’s a great way to embrace the outdoors.
To make your picnic extra special, why not get creative in the kitchen with your loved one? Baking together can be a fantastic activity that enhances coordination, motor skills, problem-solving and comprehension. You could try making sausage rolls, cakes and scones to include in your picnic hamper.
Invite the rest of the family or your loved one’s friends to join in on the fun. This gives everyone a chance to socialise and share the food you’ve made together.
6. Take a trip down memory lane
Visiting familiar places from the past can be a wonderful way to help an older person reconnect with their memories. Whether it’s a favourite family holiday spot, a street from their childhood or a village where they grew up, these places can spark meaningful conversations and provide a chance to reminisce.
There are also many open-air museums across the UK, such as the Black Country Living Museum and Surrey’s Living Museum of Rural Life, which recreate life from the 20th century. These attractions often host special events which older adults might enjoy, like singalongs with traditional live bands or vintage car shows and craft weekends at the Living Museum of Rural Life.
7. Birdwatching
Birdwatching is a simple yet incredibly rewarding way to connect with nature. Whether you set up a bird feeder in the garden or head out to a local bird sanctuary, it’s a peaceful activity that allows you to slow down and appreciate the beauty around you. Watching different bird species come and go can be incredibly calming, and it’s always a delight to spot something new.
If you’re not sure where to start, try identifying the birds you see by their colours or calls, or maybe even keep a little journal to track your sightings. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors and unwind, while also learning something new and appreciating the natural world.
8. Indoor activities to beat the heat
On particularly hot summer days, it’s a great idea to encourage older adults to explore some indoor activities that provide a break from the sun. Museums, libraries and community centres are perfect places to visit – they offer cool, air-conditioned spaces and often have interesting exhibits that can spark curiosity.
Artistic activities can also be a fantastic way to pass the time indoors. Painting, drawing, scrapbooking and other tactile crafts are enjoyable ways to get creative while staying cool. Plus, these activities help stimulate the mind and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Joining a local senior centre or community group is another wonderful option. Age UK offers a variety of social groups and activities that can help older adults stay engaged and connected with others in their community.
9. Stay active with group walks
Walking is a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, and it’s accessible for people of all ages and abilities. For those looking for a bit of company, Ramblers offers group walks that cater to different fitness levels. With over 500 groups across the UK, it’s easy to find one near you!
For those with mobility concerns, the Ramblers Wellbeing Walks are ideal. These shorter, slower-paced walks make it easy to get active and stay social, while also providing the perfect opportunity to explore your local area and meet new people. Plus, if you prefer to go solo, they also have a fantastic library of walking routes available to help you plan your next adventure.
Tips for getting outdoors
Spending time outdoors offers numerous health benefits for older adults, but it’s important to plan ahead to ensure comfort and safety.
- Choose accessible locations with flat, paved paths to make walking easier.
- Take regular breaks to rest and avoid feeling too tired during your outing.
- Dress for comfort by wearing breathable layers and supportive shoes.
- Always carry water with you to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
- Go outdoors during cooler times of the day to avoid the midday heat.
- Plan your route and check for any accessible facilities along the way.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Talk to our team today
If you or a loved one are considering live-in care to support your summer activities, speak with one of our friendly team today. Our experts can guide you on how live-in care can help ensure your loved one remains active, safe and engaged throughout the season.
Give us a call today on 01293 224 706. Our experienced team is on hand to help from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. Alternatively, contact us through our online enquiry form.
