Getting older doesn’t always have to mean slowing down. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say regular, light physical activity offers a lot of senior health care benefits—including reduced risk of heart disease, falls, and high blood pressure. Unfortunately, the high temperatures associated with summer can make it difficult for older adults to stay active this time of year. That’s why Wellington Place at Biron—an assisted living facility in Wisconsin Rapids, WI—encourages seniors to consider these safe, yet fun summer activities.

5 Summer Activities Perfect for Seniors  

1. Swimming

There’s no better way to cool off in the summer heat than by taking a relaxing dip in the pool. The natural buoyancy of the water also makes it easier on joints and muscles to exercise. Swimming laps is a good way to get in a cardio workout, whereas water aerobics can help build strength and flexibility.  

2. Yoga

Yoga is one of the best ways to keep joints and muscles flexible, as individuals can adjust their stretching to accommodate their own comfort levels. If it’s too hot outdoors to stretch, bring your practice inside an air-conditioned space for a safer, more comfortable experience.

3. Gardening

Gardening is an exciting summer activity that keeps on giving. For one, planting seeds and tending to a garden can help older adult’s workout a variety of joints and muscle groups. Many also find the practice to be an incredibly soothing way to ease stress. Depending on what’s planted, gardening can also produce nutritious fruits and vegetables that offer comprehensive senior health care benefits.

4. Walking

In terms of senior health care, walking helps improve circulation, prevent inflammation, oxygenate the blood, burn calories, improve sleep, and more. Even better, walking briskly for 10 minutes at a time is all it takes to enjoy cardio benefits, according to CDC. When the temperatures climb too high, seniors may find that walking in an air-conditioned space—such as a mall—is a terrific alternative to outdoor walking.

5. Fishing  

Since fishing is often a waiting game, many view this activity as a fun way to relax under the sun. If you hook a fish, reeling it in will also help you build muscular strength and agility.

When you or a loved one is having trouble staying active at an older age, it may be time to consider recruiting a little extra help. At Wellington Place at Biron, seniors can enjoy all the comforts that assisted living has to offer—including reliable nursing care, exercise programs, medication management, fresh cooking, social activities, and more. Set within a tranquil environment, this senior living facility of Wisconsin Rapids, WI is a wonderful place to live out one’s golden years in a happy, healthy, and stress-free fashion. To learn more about the ways this long-term care provider can support senior health care needs, visit their website. For housing availability or to schedule a tour, call (715) 423-5600.