8 Summer Activities for Older Adults
Summer presents the perfect opportunity for older adults to enjoy the outdoors, try new experiences and stay socially and physically active. Engaging in enjoyable seasonal activities not only boosts mental well-being but can also support physical health and foster stronger connections with others.
In this article, we’ll share eight summer activities ideal for older adults. Whether it’s spending time in nature, exploring a new hobby or simply enjoying the warmth of the sun, each suggestion is designed to help make the most of the season – safely and comfortably.
1. Getting outside for fresh air and sunshine
Spending time outdoors is one of the simplest yet most rewarding ways to embrace the summer months. Fresh air and natural sunlight can help improve mood, boost vitamin D levels and promote better sleep. Even gentle outdoor activities can encourage movement and support overall well-being.
Whether it’s a leisurely walk through a local park, sitting in the garden with a cup of tea or visiting a nearby nature reserve, these small moments can make a big difference.
For those with limited mobility, simply sitting outside in the shade can offer a peaceful change of scenery and a chance to connect with the world around them.
2. Gardening and planting projects
Gardening is a relaxing and rewarding way to spend time outdoors, and it offers a range of benefits for older adults. From planting flowers and herbs to tending to pots or raised beds, light gardening tasks can support gentle movement, improve mood and give a sense of purpose.
Small projects, such as re-potting indoor plants or watering hanging baskets, can be fulfilling without being physically demanding. Gardening also encourages time spent in nature, which can help reduce stress and increase feelings of calm. It’s an enjoyable activity that can be easily adapted to suit different abilities and spaces.
3. Creative activities to try indoors or out
Creative activities are a great way to stay mentally active and express yourself, whether indoors or outside. Inspired by the colours and sights of summer, these hobbies can help boost mood, reduce stress and provide a welcome sense of achievement.
Here are a few ideas to try:
- Painting or sketching – Capture flowers in bloom, garden landscapes or coastal scenes using watercolours, pencils or pastels.
- Photography – Use a smartphone or camera to take photos of summer moments, from sunsets to wildlife.
- Crafting – Create handmade cards, seasonal decorations or pressed flower art using items collected on walks or from the garden.
- Scrapbooking – Put together a summer-themed scrapbook filled with photos, memories and keepsakes from outings or holidays.
- Creative writing – Try writing short stories, poems or even a daily journal inspired by the season.
Each of these activities can be enjoyed at your own pace, either solo or with friends and family. They’re a lovely way to bring summer indoors and keep the mind active.
4. Summer picnics and afternoon teas
There’s something special about enjoying a meal outdoors during the summer. A picnic or afternoon tea is a simple way to bring people together, encouraging relaxed conversation and creating memorable moments.
Whether it’s setting up a small table in the garden or packing a light picnic for the local park, these gatherings don’t need to be elaborate. Fresh fruit, sandwiches and a pot of tea or homemade lemonade are all you need for a pleasant afternoon.
For those who prefer to stay closer to home, a garden tea with family or neighbours can be just as enjoyable. It’s a chance to socialise, soak up the sunshine and enjoy a change of routine in a familiar and comfortable setting.
5. Seasonal music and games
Music and games can lift spirits, spark memories and bring people together. Whether enjoyed alone or with others, they’re a great way to add fun and energy to summer days.
Here are a few simple ideas to try:
- Create a summer playlist – Include favourite songs from years gone by or seasonal classics that bring back happy memories.
- Host a garden quiz – Keep it light-hearted with trivia about summer, nature or music. It’s a great way to get people chatting and laughing.
- Try gentle outdoor games – Boules, skittles or a game of catch can be enjoyed at any age and easily adapted to suit different abilities.
- Singalong sessions – Whether it’s joining a local singing group or singing along to a favourite CD at home, music is a wonderful mood booster.
- Board games or card games outdoors – On warm, dry days, bring classic games outside for a change of scene and a little fresh air.
6. Staying active with gentle movement
Keeping active during the summer doesn’t have to mean strenuous exercise. Gentle movement supports flexibility, circulation and overall well-being – and can be easily adapted to suit all levels of mobility.
Here are some gentle ways to stay active:
- Seated yoga – Ideal for those with limited mobility, it helps improve posture, breathing and relaxation.
- Light stretching routines – A few minutes each day can help maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Tai chi in the shade – This slow, flowing practice improves balance, coordination and calmness of mind.
- Short daily walks – Whether it’s a stroll around the garden or a gentle walk to a nearby bench, a little movement each day goes a long way.
- Dancing at home – Put on a favourite tune and move at your own pace — even a little dancing in the kitchen can be uplifting.
7. Visiting local events and attractions
Many towns and villages host seasonal events such as fairs, outdoor concerts or craft markets, which offer a sociable atmosphere. These outings can be a refreshing change of scenery and a great way to stay connected to the community.
Garden centres are another popular destination, providing a relaxed setting to browse plants, enjoy a cup of tea and take in the summer displays. Local museums or art exhibitions can also offer a cool and comfortable indoor alternative on hotter days, with many venues offering accessibility features for older visitors.
Whether it’s a planned trip or a spontaneous outing, these experiences can add variety to the week and provide something to look forward to.
8. Birdwatching and nature spotting
Spending time in nature, simply observing the world around you, can be both soothing and stimulating. Birdwatching is a peaceful activity that encourages stillness and focus, while offering the joy of spotting familiar garden birds or discovering something new.
Whether enjoyed from a garden bench or during a gentle walk, nature spotting helps keep the mind active and curious. With a pair of binoculars and a notepad, it can easily become a relaxing daily ritual or shared hobby with friends and family.
Staying safe and comfortable in the heat
While summer brings longer days and warmer weather, it’s important to stay safe and comfortable in the heat. Staying hydrated by drinking water regularly is essential, especially when spending time outdoors. Wearing light, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat can help keep you cool, while sunscreen offers protection from harmful UV rays.
Try to avoid the hottest parts of the day by planning activities for the morning or early evening, and make use of shaded areas whenever possible.
Support from home carers during summer
For many older adults, summer can be a time to enjoy new experiences and stay active, but it may also come with challenges such as managing heat, medication routines or simply keeping up with daily activities. Elderly care can play a key role in providing the support needed to enjoy the season with confidence.
From assisting with personal care and hydration to accompanying on outings or helping with light housework, carers can ensure that loved ones stay safe, comfortable and engaged throughout the summer months. With professional elderly care, families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving the right support to enjoy the season to its fullest.
Talk to us today
At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home. We are here to support you with various forms of full time and visiting care.
Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free, no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.
