10 Outdoor Activities Nursing Home Residents Can Safely Enjoy

Spending time outside in fresh air and natural light has many benefits. For instance, it helps boost mood, regulate sleep cycle, and improve immunity. If you live in a nursing home or assisted living facility, spending time outdoors will also give you a sense of freedom. From taking a gentle stroll in the garden to listening to birdsong under the shade of a tree, there are several senior-friendly activities to enjoy in nature’s calm and beauty.

Walking

Walking is a simple yet effective way to stay active later in life. Whenever you get the time, you can inform the staff at the assisted living center and wander outside into the garden or courtyard for a stroll. You can walk alone at your own pace or get a fellow resident along and enjoy each other’s company. When moving about outside, though, choose a smooth and even path that provides a stable footing to reduce the risk of slipping. If many residents at the facility enjoy walking, you can request that the staff organize walking clubs and structured group walks.

Yoga or Stretching

Another way you and your friends can spend time outdoors is by practicing yoga. All you need to do is carry your yoga mat and find a peaceful spot away from distractions. If yoga poses seem too difficult, just stand and stretch your arms and legs. And if that too seems overwhelming, simply sit in a chair, perform breathing exercises, and relax. While yoga can be performed indoors, the natural surroundings add an extra layer of calm and enjoyment to your session.

Group Games

If you and your friends at the assisted living center would like to engage in physical activity while having fun, you could speak with the staff and request that they arrange gaming sessions. Games like ring toss, volleyball, or beanbag toss can encourage socialization and fill you all up with laughter. The staff and volunteers can tailor the games to suit everyone’s abilities by making simple adjustments, such as setting up easily accessible game stations in the courtyard and offering seated or standing options. While doing this can take some effort and require a small investment, the staff wouldn’t mind as the games would provide some much-needed outdoor fun for seniors.

Gardening

If the nursing home you are staying at has a courtyard with space to spare, you can consider placing raised garden beds or containers. Depending on your abilities, you can either create a simple herb garden or plant vegetables and flowers of your choice. If your friends are interested too, you can all distribute responsibilities among yourselves, with some watering plants, some planting, and others harvesting small produce.

Birdwatching

If you like birdwatching, you can convince the staff to install small fountains or bird feeders in the courtyard. These will invite feathered activity that you can sit back and enjoy with your eyes and ears. You can carry binoculars or bird guides if you are interested in making it an interactive activity with others. Watching the birds and listening to them sing will encourage mindfulness, spark some conversations, and even foster someone’s curiosity.

Sing-Alongs

Music is a universal source of joy, and taking it outdoors makes it even more uplifting and engaging. You can ask the staff, family members, or visiting musicians to perform in the garden and join them. Familiar songs often bring back fond memories and encourage participation, even from those who might otherwise be reserved.

Arts and Crafts Sessions

Activities like painting, drawing, and crafts can easily be moved outdoors. By arranging rows of tables and chairs, everyone can comfortably sit together and enjoy the creative process in the fresh air. The natural light can add a layer of inspiration and spark creativity. You can also create seasonal decorations to display around the facility.

Storytelling and Reading Circles

If you or someone you know enjoys reading, you’ll appreciate the cozy comfort of sitting outdoors under a shady spot, where you can relax and immerse yourself in a good book. You can use the assisted living facility’s shaded pergolas and gazebos to start a reading circle. You can also get together here and host a storytelling evening. Reading sessions offer both entertainment and social interaction and are safe senior outdoor activities that nobody would object to. Even staff, volunteers, or family members can read aloud and share their stories and memories.

Picnics

Picnics are among the most joyful and engaging outdoor activities that even nursing home residents can enjoy. You, along with your friends and the staff, can plan a picnic in the safety of the courtyard or go to a nearby park. The staff and family members of residents can organize small outdoor meals with sandwiches, fruit, and refreshing drinks. Picnics encourage conversation and offer a break from the routine of indoor dining.

Holiday Events

From summer ice cream socials to fall pumpkin decorations and spring flower festivals, seasonal celebrations can be exciting. You can participate by helping decorate, enjoying themed treats, or simply relaxing while soaking in the lively atmosphere. During the holidays, you can help the staff schedule a movie night by setting up a projector and a screen and transforming the courtyard or open ground into an open-air theater. Comfortable chairs, blankets, and popcorn can make it a magical experience for everyone.

When planning engaging outdoor activity ideas, be sure not to overlook safety. Plan long activities in shaded areas with gazebos, trees, or umbrellas, and ensure there is water nearby for regular hydration, especially during warmer months. Ensure the paths are mobility-friendly, well-lit, and smooth to prevent mishaps.