Staying Active in the Summer in Assisted Living Facilities
Summer is here, and with it comes sunshine, fresh air, and the perfect excuse to get outside and stay active. Whether it’s a walk in the garden or soaking up some rays on the patio, this season brings new energy and opportunities for fun. Even for those in assisted living facilities, limited mobility doesn’t have to mean limited activity. With the right support, summer can still be a season full of joy, movement, and meaningful moments.
Benefits of Staying Active in Summer
Being active isn’t just for fun; it’s also a key part of maintaining both physical and mental well-being, especially for older adults living in communities that support their changing needs. The summer season offers the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the warmer weather and longer days, staying active and engaged.
Here are some physical health benefits of staying active for individuals in assisted living facilities:
- Stronger heart health
- Better balance and coordination
- Reduced risk of falls and injury
- Improved sleep quality
- Boosted immune and digestive function
Now let’s look at some mental health benefits that come with staying active in this setting:
- Reduced feelings of stress or anxiety
- Increased sense of independence
- Improved memory and focus
- Enhanced mood and self-esteem
- More social connection and daily stimulation
Participating in seasonal activities can spark a renewed sense of energy and motivation that lasts well beyond summer, helping residents live with purpose and joy throughout the year.
Safe Summer Exercises for Seniors
Exercises can vary in intensity, which is why choosing the right ones is especially important to keep older adults safe and active during the summer. For individuals in assisted living facilities, focusing on movement that suits their physical needs and the season helps prevent unnecessary health risks.
Here are a few great examples of exercise activities that are both safe and suitable for a range of abilities in senior living communities:
- Indoor walking clubs
- Water aerobics
- Chair yoga sessions
- Yoga in shaded areas
- Tai chi in the morning
- Light resistance band routines
- Gentle stretching classes
- Guided balance exercises
- Mall or hallway walks during hot days
- Simple dance or movement sessions with music
The most valuable part of choosing the right summer exercise is ensuring it remains consistent, enjoyable, and easy to maintain, so that older adults can stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed or at risk.
Fun Outdoor Events That Encourage Movement
Staying active doesn’t have to mean trudging through dull exercise routines. It can also mean joining fun-filled outdoor events that spark your interest, support your mental well-being, and encourage meaningful social interaction. Below are some suggested outdoor activities that bring both movement and enjoyment for older adults in community living settings:
- Gardening in shared green spaces
- Dance socials with music and light refreshments
- Mini-golf tournaments with friends
- A Scenic group walks around the property
- Outdoor craft fairs with hands-on booths
- Gentle movement games like bean bag toss or ring toss
- Backyard picnics with light games and music
- Morning stretching sessions under shaded areas
These kinds of activities bring life and energy to summer days, turning each one into a chance to enjoy yourself while staying active in ways that truly feel good.
Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn about Fallbrook Assisted Living!
Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper