It’s official! The spring season is finally upon us! While the weather may not necessarily be cooperating just yet, the winter is officially over. For many Canadians, this is a wonderful spot on the calendar. The beginning of spring is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and get active in the fresh air. The warmer weather, blooming flowers and longer daylight hours provide great opportunities for us all to enjoy safe, healthy activities.
Seniors, however, are cautioned to take extra special care when venturing outdoors. After all, it’s always important to practice safety first.
Here are five safe and healthy springtime activities for older adults:
1. Take a gentle nature walk.
It’s doubtful that you’ll ever come across a list of health tips and not find walking somewhere on it. Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises for seniors. It improves circulation, strengthens muscles and enhances balance. At the same time, casual strolls throughout a local park or your neighbourhood allow you to enjoy fresh air and soak in the beauty of nature.
Older adults should be sure to choose even, well-paved paths to reduce the risk of tripping. Be sure to use a cane or walker if needed for extra stability. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes to help prevent trips and falls. Also, stay hydrated and take breaks when necessary.
Tourism Calgary lists several excellent spots for seniors to take easy paved walks. They include Chevron Learning Pathway at Prince’s Island Park, Jack & Jean Leslie RiverWalk and Baker Park Loop at Bowness Park. Their website also recommends nature walks at Twelve Mile Coulee, Bebo Grove Loop at Fish Creek Park and the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary.
2. Start a small garden.
With the melting of the snow comes the return of blooming flowers. Why not add to the beauty of Calgary by starting up a small garden of your own? Gardening is a fantastic way to stay active while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors. It encourages movement, boosts mood and even helps reduce stress.
To garden safely, use raised garden beds or container gardens. They will help you to avoid excessive bending. It’s a good idea, as well, to invest in ergonomic gardening tools with easy-grip handles. Don’t forget to take breaks and avoid working during peak sun hours. If you don’t consider yourself much of a gardener, try growing herbs indoors or planting a small flowerpot on your patio!
“Regularly participating in gardening activities has been linked to a decreased risk of stroke,” informs the Canadian Seniors Directory, “The physical movements involved, such as bending over, crouching, or building raised beds, amount to exercise that benefits both the body and mind. Do not forget safety precautions and remember not to over do anything. Regular relaxation and consuming plenty of water during the gardening is of course a must.”
3. Register for a local tai chi class.
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art. However, although it was originally developed for combat and self-defence, it is currently practiced as a gentle, low-impact movement. As a result, it is quite popular with seniors. The gentle stretching exercises associated with tai chi improve flexibility, balance and joint mobility. These are all crucial for fall prevention.
Tai chi is also a great practice for seniors as it is known to help with stress reduction and relaxation. It also encourages mindful breathing and better posture while strengthening muscles with very little strain on the joints. Many community centres offer beginner-friendly classes designed for seniors.
Check out the City of Calgary website to learn how to register for tai chi classes this spring and summer. “Improve your balance, posture and focus, while energizing the body, mind and spirit through the practice of Tai Chi and Qigong,” encourages the site, “Learn to relax through breathing patterns and soft flowing movements of these gentle martial arts.”
4. Go birdwatching
Are you an animal lover? Have you ever considered taking up birdwatching? This activity is a peaceful, engaging practice that allows you to connect with nature. It also helps you to sharpen your focus and observational skills. All you need is a pair of binoculars and a quiet spot to enjoy the sights and sounds of spring birds.
The City of Calgary also offers birdwatching courses! “Our birdwatching courses will introduce you to some of the 270+ species of birds that call Calgary home,” informs their website, “They include visits to some of Calgary’s natural areas and are led by birding experts.”
The site goes on to note that the birdwatching courses will help participants to hone their observation skills and mental fitness by learning to recognize different birds and calls. The birdwatching courses take place in a number of city parks including Carburn Park, The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, Confederation Park, Griffith Woods, Ralph Klein Park and Weaselhead Flats.
5. Try outdoor photography.
Wouldn’t it be great to forever capture the beauty of nature this spring? Taking up photography can help you to do just that. This awesome hobby keeps the mind sharp and encourages seniors to explore their surroundings. Whether using a camera or a smartphone, snapping the beauty of spring can be a relaxing and rewarding experience.
Take photos of blooming flowers and trees, local wildlife like birds and squirrels as well as scenic landscapes and sunsets. Even if your mobility is limited, sitting on a park bench or in your own backyard can provide plenty of inspiration.
According to Alex Cooke of Fstoppers, photography is the perfect hobby for older people. “For seniors who may have limited mobility, photography offers a unique advantage,” he writes, “It doesn’t always necessitate long journeys or physically demanding activities. Someone can capture images from their backyard or local park, or they can travel farther if they so choose. This adaptability is crucial, allowing older individuals to engage in a fulfilling hobby without the strain or stress that other activities might impose.”
Allow Advantage Home Health Solutions to help you enjoy the spring!
Our team is dedicated to helping seniors maintain their independence and enjoy life to the fullest. If you or a loved one needs a mobility aid such as an outdoor mobility scooter or a home safety solution such as a stair lift, we’re here to help! Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
