Take a guess. Of all the activities and trips I planned over the years for the frail elderly population I served, which was the most popular?
The garden centre.
We rented a bus because it was necessary with wheelchairs, but we didn’t go far. A large garden centre situated only a few kilometres away saw us drive up and unload our precious cargo. The seniors leaned forward to see the displays of flowers and vegetables. Our volunteers walked the aisles, navigating wheelchairs and stopping frequently to admire. We took pictures in front of displays, and finished with a snack in the parking lot. At minimal cost, it brought joy to everyone involved.
The second most popular outing was the annual picnic at the park across the street. One of our staff wheeled a barbecue over (which we later learned we needed a permit for–oops!) Almost every resident came, and soon the park bloomed with floppy hats, wheelchairs and the smell of roasting hot dogs. Family came, too, making our groups overflow the boundaries. The park had a paddling pool in the centre, and elders were delighted to watch children playing in it. A few dangled gnarled toes in the water or walked through, walkers and all. Although the event left the staff exhausted, it brought joy and connection, which made it worthwhile.
But what was it, really? Fresh air, hot dogs, a bit of water and people. Rows and rows of pretty plants, and people. The bottom line is that summer fun with elders who can’t plan for themselves doesn’t need to be sophisticated.
Here are a few ideas:
- Parks and botanical gardens. An afternoon wandering one of these will be fun, even for someone who doesn’t have a passion for plants, and gardeners will be in heaven. Parks with playgrounds where children are swinging and flying down slides provide laughter and maybe some intergenerational connection.
- Outdoor food and craft markets. Many communities have a regular outdoor markets each weekend, which means tasting can be part of the experience. For less than an hour’s drive, small towns have yearly events. These can be crowded, so plan around this. I noticed my neighbourhood’s festival is planning for a “calm area” for neurodivergent individuals this year. Something like this might also be helpful for your
elder after roaming the booths. - Many senior centres have drop-ins which may be of interest. Some of these are also intergenerational.
- Who doesn’t love a picnic, or some form of eating outside? Our neighbourhood at Christie Gardens had a patio area, accessible from the dining room. We had afternoon refreshments there any day the weather cooperated, and other events like ice cream socials and watermelon seed spitting contests! Smiles and laughter filled the air.
Safety first
- Keep an eye on the weather app. Weather which is too hot and humid is not only unpleasant, but increases the risk of sunstroke. And no one enjoys getting caught in the rain or strong winds.
- Wear a hat or stay in a shaded area.
- Wear sunscreen or cover up.
- Drink! Dehydration happens quickly and has serious consequences.
Spring, summer and even fall bring multiple opportunities to enjoy nature, breathe fresh air and connect with others in a different environment. It improves mood and lifts depression.
Take the opportunity to plan outings with your elder which celebrate the season, and them.
Next week: Including elders in family gatherings