Keeping Social: 5 Outdoor Activities to Keep the Elderly Connected

Staying active, getting out in the fresh air, and having meaningful social connections to others are all important to having a good quality of life as we age. So why not go for all three elements at once? Here are five outdoor activities to keep the elderly connected. 

1. Birdwatching

Birdwatching is an excellent outdoor activity because it can be done at nearly any time of the year, and it can be adapted to your comfort and experience level. Here in the Yukon, we have a multitude of incredible birds, making it an excellent place to take up birdwatching. 

Head out with friends to see how many birds you can identify, or consider taking a birdwatching class or tour. Joining fellow birdwatching enthusiasts is a great way to keep connected. 

2. Pickleball

Chances are you’ve heard someone talk about pickleball. It’s all the rage these days! And that’s for good reason. Pickleball is easy to learn, fun, and low-impact, so it’s perfect for seniors (and anyone else, too!). 

Plus, because pickleball requires two to four players, it’s an easy way to keep the elderly connected, too. So find a partner and start a regular pickleball game!

3. Fishing

Fishing is a relaxing activity that gives you plenty of time to bond with your companions–especially if the fish aren’t biting! Remaining calm and still while attempting to catch fish gives you plenty of time to talk. And if you succeed in reeling in a great catch, you’ll get bragging rights to an impressive fishing story to tell all your friends!

Whether you want to fish from the shore of many of our local lakes and ponds, head out on a boat, or try your hand at ice fishing, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing in the Yukon. So load up your tackle box, make plans with a few buddies, and see if you can reel in the big one!

4. Golf

A good game of golf takes several hours and includes plenty of exercise as you move around the course. That’s quality time to spend in the company of good friends. And the fun involved in playing a game of golf makes it easy to foster social connections as you play.

Here in the Yukon, we have a number of golf courses, so it’s easy to plan a game of golf. Just pick a date, gather your friends, and go enjoy the green!

5. Walking

Walking is one of the easiest activities to fit into your lifestyle. It’s as simple as walking around your neighborhood! But you can always take it up a notch by walking through a park or heading out on a hiking trail, too. 

And like many activities, walking is more fun in the company of friends. That’s because it provides a relaxed way to chat and keep connected. At Normandy Living, we have a very active walking club that meets twice a week, and we’d love for you to join us. It’s a great way to make new friends!

Would you like to be part of an active independent living community that makes it easy to keep social? Book a tour to learn what Normandy Living is all about and see whether it’s the right fit for you!