Last Updated on September 24, 2019
Finding the right activities for the elderly as autumn approaches is important, as it’s one of the best times of the year to be
outdoors. The summer heat has passed, and the cool chill of winter hasn’t yet set in. Everything from leaf peeping to making treats to simply going for walks, there are plenty of fall activities for seniors to help boost mood, confidence, and the immune system.
Read on to learn about some fun indoor and outdoor festivities that can help brighten anyone’s day, especially those that may have mobility issues.
Indoor Fall Activities for Seniors
Those who enjoy making crafts or baking have plenty of activities to choose from when it comes things to do in autumn. One thing that may bring a senior some joy is preparing for the impending visit of little trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Of course, it’s perfectly acceptable to just place a bowl of candy outside, but you can also do it up a bit, making Halloween goody bags for the children that come. In fact, a dementia patient may enjoy sorting candy into bags, to help with cognition and dexterity. It’s a good way to help them feel included.
Coloring is also a great way to pass time and relax. It’s easy to find fall, pumpkin, or Halloween-themed coloring pages. Whether you choose crayons or pencils, this is a good way to relax. Another fun indoor idea when it comes to fall activities for seniors includes fall-themed puzzles. Doing a puzzle doesn’t have to be a solitary event, either; one-on-one activities for seniors is important also to help with social skills and mood.
Outdoor Fall Activities for Seniors
When it comes to outdoor activities for seniors during autumn, there are also quite a few things to choose from. Choosing a nice trail to walk is a spectacular idea on a cool, crisp fall day. Those with mobility issues or those in wheelchairs can find many wheelchair-accessible trails in New Jersey, so they can certainly get outside, exercise, and enjoy the fall foliage as well. For those who have trouble with their mobility, simply walking around the block or walking to the mailbox and back can help exercise the body and improve the mood.
Other outdoor fall activities and outings for seniors include things like apple picking (this does require some walking, but not as much as hiking), road trips to see fall foliage (especially up and down the East Coast), and enjoying the great outdoors by “backyard” camping with a fire pit.
Fall is also a great time to spend time with the grandkids, if one is able.
Other Fall Activities for Seniors
There are also other fall activities for seniors that could certainly improve someone’s mood. These activities include things such as:
- Pumpkin or wine glass painting (fall themes)
- Planting perennials and gardening
- Making fall-themed decorations
- Preparing fall treats
- Having a scary movie night with other seniors/friends
- Having a costume contest
For more ideas about activities for seniors, or to learn more about how mobility products such as stair lifts and wheelchair ramps can be life-changing, contact Williams Lift Co. today. We want seniors, those with disabilities, and their caregivers to live their best lives possible.