Senior-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in the Fall

October is a great month to get outside and engage in activities that celebrate the season’s beauty. The crisp air, blue skies, and vibrantly colored leaves welcome people to the great outdoors. The health benefits of spending time outside are numerous, from promoting exercise to reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and improving mood. Spending the final days before winter arrives enjoying nature is just plain good for you.

If you need a few senior-friendly ideas to make the most of fall, we have some for you to explore.

Ways to Enjoy Nature This Fall

• Nature Walks and Scenic Drives

One of the best ways to appreciate the season is to take a leisurely nature walk. Many local parks and nature reserves offer accessible trails that are suitable for seniors. These walks provide a chance to enjoy the fair weather and stunning views while promoting mental and physical health.

For those who prefer not to walk, or who struggle with mobility issues, a scenic drive might make for a great afternoon activity. It could be as easy as meandering along backroads in the nearby countryside or along a lakeshore or coastal route. You could invite friends or family along for companionship and pack a picnic lunch to share in a roadside park.

• Spend Time Gardening

While many people associate gardening with spring and early summer, fall is actually a good time for it, too. Many plants, such as pansies, chrysanthemums, and asters, thrive in cooler temperatures. So do a few vegetables—favorite fall crops, like kale and carrots, do better after the temperature falls.

Then there are the bulbs that should be planted in the fall for spring blooming. Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and snowdrops are just a few of the many bulbs to consider planting this month. If you’ve never tackled this kind of gardening before, these tips for fall bulb planting might be helpful.

Gardening not only helps to improve strength and flexibility, but it also enhances mental well-being. If you aren’t interested in being a solo gardener, consider joining a local community garden. It’s a good way to foster social connections and provide a sense of belonging.

• Visit Farmers’ Markets and Fall Festivals

Farmers’ markets and festivals are abundant in the fall. Vendors offer everything from pumpkins and seasonal fruits to baked goods and crafts. Many also have music, food trucks, and other entertainment.

If you would like to venture farther from home to take in a farmers’ market or festival, there are lots of online resources to help you find one. This list of the top 26 fall festivals as ranked by US News and World Report might give you some ideas, as can this national farmers’ market directory.

• Explore an apple orchard and cider mill

Nothing symbolizes fall better than a trip to an apple orchard and cider mill. You can pick your own apples or buy some already bagged. Many orchards also have their own mills, where you can watch cider being produced and buy a carton freshly made.

When you check the orchard’s schedule online, make sure to look for special events they may be hosting this fall. You’ll likely find everything from hayrides to pumpkin carving.

• Make crafts using seasonal items

Autumn provides ample inspiration for craft projects. Activities like making wreaths, painting pumpkins, or creating seasonal centerpieces can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Seniors can enjoy spending time outdoors collecting natural materials like leaves, pine cones, twigs, and acorns, and then use them to create fall-themed decorations.

These kinds of creative pursuits can improve manual dexterity, boost mood, and encourage socializing. Community centers often host crafting workshops, which can give you the chance to meet new people while learning new skills.

Stay Safe While Exploring Nature This Fall

If you want to do some exploring this fall but are anxious about doing so on your own, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might be a solution. These discreet devices can slip into your purse or pocket. If an emergency occurs, you can call for help with the simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!