Outdoor Adventures for Active Older Adults
Edward Abbey, the author and essayist, was quoted as saying, “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.” Most of us agree that many things are often better outside. But it’s also pretty easy to fall into a routine of spending time indoors, especially as we age and during certain seasons of the year. If you’ve been wanting to get outside more, remember that “adventure” doesn’t have to mean scaling mountains or running long distances. Outdoor activities can be simple, accessible, and surprisingly meaningful. They are also really good for our physical health, emotional well-being, and as a way to connect with others.
Why Getting Outdoors Matters More Than We Realize
Outdoor environments are a great way to naturally encourage movement without it feeling like exercise. Not everyone likes going to the gym because it can often feel like something we have to do. Getting outside can be just as beneficial as exercising indoors, but it just feels easier. And for good reason–there are a lot of mental and emotional benefits to spending time in nature. Sunlight provides many benefits, including vitamin D (important for bone health and overall wellness) and helping regulate our body’s internal clock (which can improve sleep quality). Outdoor activities also create natural opportunities to converse and connect with others. This is a simple way to add variety and purpose to the week.
Walking With a Purpose
Walking remains one of the best and most accessible outdoor activities for older adults. There are countless ways to do it! Next time you’re tired of your normal loop, consider a few ways to make it more interesting by trying out:
- Nature trails
- Botanical gardens
- A walk through a historic neighborhood
- Local parks
- Birdwatching walks
Inviting friends or joining a group can also quickly turn it into a very social experience.
Outdoor Hobbies That Keep the Mind Engaged
If you’ve been looking for a few activities that combine fresh air with creativity or learning, here are a few of the more popular ones:
- Gardening at home or as part of a community garden
- Photography
- Sketching or painting outside
- Birdwatching
The nice thing about many of these hobbies is that they give you a reason to get outside while also keeping your mind engaged. They can provide a sense of accomplishment, something to look forward to, and often a chance to keep learning. Best of all, they can be enjoyed at your own pace and don’t necessarily require a great deal of physical exertion. Sometimes simply tending a few flowers (or pulling a few weeds), capturing a beautiful photo, or spotting a bird you’ve never seen before can make a day feel more rewarding!
Turning Everyday Activities Into Small Adventures
Ordinary activities can also feel like an adventure. With a little bit of planning, it’s easy to come up with and participate in outings you might not normally do. For example, visiting a farmer’s market or attending an outdoor concert, exploring a new park, or taking a scenic drive. Many older adults enjoy planning dinner outings with friends, especially if this can be done outdoors. These types of activities can be less about exercise and more about exploration, while still keeping life interesting.
Sharing Outdoor Experiences With Others
The best adventures are often shared. While individual journeys and trips can be very enjoyable, the memory of an activity is often stronger when it’s done with friends. And, as we age, relationships and interaction remain just as important to our health and well-being. All of the activities mentioned thus far can be done with others, and here are a few more ideas:
- Walking clubs
- Gardening groups
- Outdoor fitness classes
- Community events and festivals
- Intergenerational outings with grandchildren
All of these are great opportunities to combine outdoor activities with friendship and a sense of belonging. If the thought of organizing all of these activities feels a little overwhelming, many senior living communities make it easier by offering scheduled outings, walking groups, outdoor classes, and creating shared spaces where residents can naturally connect with others. Sometimes, having activities planned and transportation readily available is all it takes to spend more time outdoors.
Adventure Doesn’t Have an Age Limit
Adventure doesn’t have an age limit, and we all get to decide what that means for us. A simple, working definition of adventure is “an exciting or remarkable experience.” That can come just by exploring our curiosity. If you’ve been feeling a little bored, consider branching out. It’s okay to start small; in fact, that may be the best way to start. There are numerous activities waiting to be tried, just outside. And, if you’re looking to fast-track things, consider visiting a community like Compass Park. It can be a great way to stay active, connected, and engaged.