Outdoor Activities for Active Seniors: Making the Most of Seattle's Sunny Months
Making the most of Seattle’s summer months in a must for active seniors. Seattle’s independent older adults know summer months are a siren’s call to get outside.
Spending time outdoors is good for your health and overall well-being. Outdoor activities offer physical health benefits and Vitamin D, while socializing is good for mental health.
Looking to venture outdoors this summer in the Emerald City? Here are some of our favorite outdoor activities for active independent seniors in Seattle:
Culture in the Heart of Seattle for Active Retirement Residents
The Seattle metro area hosts dozens of festivals in the summer months. One location teeming with activities is the Seattle Center. From food and music festivals, Fourth of July fireworks, and cultural events, the grounds at Seattle Center provide an enjoyable way to exercise, socialize, and immerse ourselves in culture. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to know lifelong learning may reduce our risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Cultivate a deeper understanding of the many cultures that live in our city at Festal events. For food, music, and performances, get up and dance at BrasilFest, grab a bao bun at the Chinese Cultural and Arts Festival or learn about Persian culture during the Iranian Festival.
The Bite of Seattle in July is a food lover’s delight. Featuring hundreds of food vendors, local artisans, and scores of musical performers, this event will keep you talking and exploring for miles.
The end of summer brings the Bumbershoot Arts & Music Festival over Labor Day weekend. It’s a celebration of music and arts that, will get you on your feet to dance and out discovering local artisans.
Did you know? You can see all Seattle Center events on their website while other senior-focused events can be found at Northwest Prime Time.
Exploring Seattle's Parks for Nature, Camaraderie and Health
In Seattle, you're never too far from nature. There are more than 480 parks within city limits. Strolling or hiking at Seattle parks brings many benefits. According to Harvard Medical School, walking counteracts the effects of weight-promoting genes, helps tame a sweet tooth, reduces the risk of developing breast cancer, eases joint pain, and boosts immune function.
Some of the city’s most popular parks are great for walks with a friend, family and pets. Green Lake is a flat, well-maintained, 2.8-mile path. While Seattle’s oldest park, Denny Park surprises on each visit with its Olmstead-influenced design.
Some parks in Seattle are so large that walking through them feels like being on a hike. Get your heart rate up with a vigorous hike at Discovery Park, Seattle's largest green space. Or power walk through the Washington Park Arboretum with their world-class collection of plants. Walk and explore with a friend, on a group tour, or engage your brain with their weekly classes and activities.
Did you know: According to the National Institutes of Health, healthy seniors should walk 7,000 – 10,000 steps per day or about three miles.
Gardening as Therapeutic Activity for Senior Living Residents
Horizon House residents are not strangers to gardening as a rewarding outdoor activity. The terrace gardens and herb garden at Horizon House are tended by the residents, with tools supplied by the Garden Committee.
Gardening is not only relaxing and therapeutic, it also provides moderate physical exercise and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Gardening also promotes mental well-being, relieves stress, and is a great social activity because gardeners love to share tips and accomplishments.
Did you know: According to the National Gardening Association, 35% of adults aged 50 and older are interested in starting or continuing to garden.
Golf for Exercise and Connection in Seattle
There’s a reason golf is one of the most popular outdoor activities for adults over 65. It’s low impact yet works all the muscles in your body. Golf’s aerobic nature helps prevent cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Golfing is also a natural way to socialize and make new friends. This goes for scratch golfers or duffers working on their handicaps, walking 18 holes on a beautiful day.
Did you know: There are 38 courses within 15-miles of Seattle including:
· Interbay Golf Center
· Jackson Park Golf Course
· Jefferson Park
· West Seattle Golf Course
For the senior residents living at Horizon House, Seattle’s many activities during the sunny months offer a host of opportunities to enjoy the city we call home. Contact us if you are ready to join our active, vibrant community.