Warm summer weather can be a benefit to aching and stiff joints. That means it’s time to make the most of fun summer activities while the weather is at its best.
We’re here to help senior residents of Southern Pines, NC, do exactly that by offering inspiration and a solution.
Listed below are the top engaging summer activities that are as fulfilling as they are enjoyable. Keep reading to find your new favorite!
Gardening
Few things are as stunning as the look of a thriving garden. It’s colorful and buzzing with life. Why not try your hand at gardening this summer?
It’s a way to give yourself constant yet gentle activity throughout the season. You’ll get to nurture plants and watch them grow from sprouts to full blooms. It’s possible to garden with only a single potted plant, or you could take advantage of a huge plot of soil.
This makes it one of the best active aging ideas around.
Whenever you feel like your motivation dwindles, visit the local Sandhills Horticulture Gardens. You’ll see beautiful feats of gardening that’ll make you want to jump back into the soil!
Horseback Riding
Are you looking for an activity that offers summer fun for older adults with a twist of adventure? Southern Pines has several options for horseback riding that can add a thrill of unique excitement to your summer.
If you’ve never interacted with horses before, it can be intimidating. Don’t worry — the experts will help guide you through the process. They can work with you to find the right horse that suits your level of experience and strength.
Even riding around in a gentle circle can get your heart racing with joy.
Gaming
Although gaming is an activity you can enjoy all year round, there are some games you can only play during the summer. You don’t want to miss out on them since games can help with memory recall, motor control, and social skills. That’s why the best memory care programs include a variety of games in their activity roster.
During the summer, don’t forget to try out games such as:
- Lawn bowling
- Bocce ball
- Croquet
- Horseshoes
- Badminton
- Giant Jenga
- Tennis
Exploring New Restaurants
Going out to eat at a new restaurant with friends and loved ones is the height of senior social engagement. You’ll get to eat something delicious while also socializing with others for as long as you’d like.
This helps strengthen social bonds while also giving you new experiences, especially if you test out a restaurant with a cuisine you’ve never tried before.
Don’t feel like restaurants have anything new to offer you? Try going to a local farmer’s market, such as the Moore County Farmer’s Market. The stalls and merchandise change every week, so you’ll never get bored of exploring.
Creating Art
Get in touch with your creative side this summer by creating some kind of art. There are so many benefits to making art that it’s something every person of every age should engage in.
From improving problem-solving to building confidence, creativity boosts the brain without ever feeling like a chore.
The best part is that you’ll gain the benefits of indulging in creativity regardless of which medium you choose. This includes art projects such as:
- Writing about your experiences
- Painting a landscape
- Sketching people at a local gathering
- Crocheting a scarf
- Playing an instrument
- Cooking a meal
- Dancing to your favorite song
- Arranging a flower bouquet
- Creating a poem
The possibilities are endless. Plus, engaging with creativity can be a lot of fun, whether you’re doing it alone or with other people.
Golfing
With the fields as green as they’ll get all year, summer is the perfect time to take out your golfing clubs. It’s another form of gentle exercise with the thrill of competition. It’s exciting to try and beat your last score or engage in friendly competition with your friends.
Golfing can strengthen hand-eye coordination and give you a chance to socialize with others. You and your golfing buddies can cheer each other on or give pointers to sink the ball better next time.
It’s also oddly relaxing to be surrounded by green fields, basking in the sun as you await your turn.
Not a fan of traditional golfing? Try some miniature golfing instead. You can even set up an obstacle course on a lawn so you can enjoy golfing without even leaving your senior community.
Hiking
Getting out in the sun and challenging yourself to complete a hiking trail can lead to a burst of self-satisfaction. You’ll get good exercise at a pace that you set.
Southern Pines is blessed with a wide range of local hiking trails that suit all levels of athleticism. Check out the Southern Pines Greenway System for information on which trail you should try next.
As you continue your hiking journey, you’ll find yourself growing stronger and more confident with your balance. This can lead to you choosing harder challenges or completing them faster.
Don’t forget to bring your pet with you on your hiking adventures. They’re certain to adore the exercise in the warm summer weather as well.
Relaxing
With all the seasonal events in assisted living, sometimes it’s nice to simply sit back and relax. Whether you choose somewhere new or a tried and true retreat, relaxing is a vital part of good mental health.
It allows you to destress and reconnect with yourself. You’ll often feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle anything after time spent relaxing in the sun.
Allow yourself to do nothing but unwind once in a while this summer. Your body and mind will thank you!
Enjoy Fun Summer Activities by Joining TerraBella Southern Pines
If you’re looking for an easy way to engage in fun summer activities without the hassle, consider joining our assisted living family.
TerraBella Southern Pines has been a trusted senior living community for nearly 20 years. We create a supportive atmosphere for residents to enjoy every day to the fullest by offering exciting activities, nutritious meals, and diligent care.
Schedule a tour with us today, and we’ll show you around our welcoming Southern Pines senior community!