Summer Activities for Seniors in Wheelchairs

A person's Golden Years should be filled with fun times and support from loved ones. However, a wheelchair can make someone think they can't participate in the things around them—that's not the case!

In addition to offering a wide range of activities for seniors in wheelchairs, remaining active promotes better physical and mental health. Read on to get some ideas and maybe even try a couple of them out!

1. Visit the Park

There is nothing better than spending the day outside during the summer. Take some time out of the day to have a caretaker go with the resident to a local park. They can enjoy the fresh air while listening to the birds and get a much-needed change of scenery. Most parks are handicap accessible but do your research first to be sure.

2. Watch a Sports Game

Sports take us back to a time when athletes were revered, and the country came together over ballpark franks (no matter what team you were rooting for). Bring back this feeling for a moment by taking a senior to a local sports game. Almost all stadiums adhere to certain accessibility requirements, so being in a wheelchair shouldn't be a problem. Don't already know which teams are their favorite? Simply ask! And don't forget to bring the camera to make some memories.

3. Fish at the Docks

Fishing gives people a calm way to enjoy nature in peace while also working toward the goal of catching fish. While the wheelchair may not be suitable for many boats or sandy beaches, but docks work perfectly! Pack a breakfast/lunch and head out early, but don't fill up if you plan on eating the fish you get. Safety precautions should take preferences on your outing, as you always want to be careful around bodies of water.

4. Go Shopping

Most seniors look to get rid of things instead of adding to the items they already have, but they still like looking through stores and buying clothes or household items for family and friends. Stores have air conditioning, and there are usually restaurants or ice cream shops nearby. Stores also tend to have great accessibility so people in wheelchairs can give them their money, too.

5. Play Board Games or Card Games

For seniors with a competitive streak, board games and card games are a great way to socialize and showcase their problem-solving skills. Studies even indicate that games can help reduce dementia. There are several games to choose from, so try a couple to find out which games the group enjoys the most. For the senior who likes to play games alone, there are plenty of options available to them, too.

6. Join a Book Club

Keeping the brain stimulated becomes increasingly important with age. When game night is over, another way to stimulate the brain is to read a book. It's a quiet activity that takes up large amounts of time. There are also styles for everyone. Research books in your favorite genre to learn about new authors to look out for. Also, go back to old classics that were significant throughout the years. Bring other people into the fun with a book club that meets once a week or once a month. Seniors can discuss the story and its relevance in today's culture. The best part is that anyone in a wheelchair will feel included.

7. Start Art Classes

Art is not only beautiful to look at but creating art has numerous benefits for the artist (whether they are professional or not). Creating art improves cognitive functions, improves self-esteem, and makes people happier. Seniors in wheelchairs can do it easily, too!

To get started, it's a good idea to find a shady place outside so you don't have to worry about spilling paint in your home. Use paints, markers, crayons, and anything else you want to make your masterpiece. You can even use the final product as a gift. All you'll need to do is find an appropriate frame.

Summer is a time to have fun, and a wheelchair shouldn't stand in the way! These ideas should make it easy for seniors in wheelchairs to make the most of their summer.

Brookfield Senior Living

Brookfield Senior Living provides the absolute best accommodations in the Bella Vista, AR area. The caring and professional staff don't only strive to provide excellent care; they strive to go above and beyond. Nurses and doctors have qualifications specifically tailored to the care of the greatest generation. We happily help residents with all ailments and conditions, including memory problems and terminal illness. For active residents, we always have activities, trips, and shows going on to keep people busy. Of course, each resident gets to choose what they do and do not want to participate in. We accept most forms of insurance, so just about anyone can enjoy the benefits of choosing Brookfield Senior Living in Bella Vista, AR.

Call today to learn more about becoming a resident at Brookfield Senior Living. The friendly staff can answer your questions and even schedule a time for you to visit.