Summer Activities Seniors Can Enjoy with their Grandchildren

In the Chicago area, time spent outside in the summer is precious. No matter your age, everyone wants to spend their afternoons soaking up the sun and enjoying the fresh air—including your grandchildren. Next time you’re together, feed that desire and try these summer activities seniors can enjoy with their grandchildren.

When you’re outside, don’t forget…

The summer sun may feel revitalizing, but it’s important you take the proper steps to keep both yourself and your grandchildren safe. Remember to use sunscreen before going out and reapply every two to three hours. Have water easily accessible to you, whether that is in water bottles with you or in a full pitcher indoors.

If the weather is exceedingly hot, make sure there is nearby shade you can escape to. Seniors are more susceptible to heat exhaustion or stroke, but it is possible for children to experience it too. So, make sure you are staying safe while you are having fun.

Summer activities seniors can enjoy with their grandchildren

With the proper sun protection and water to keep you hydrated, you are ready to go have fun with your grandchildren! Try some of these great summer activities before the season is out for an afternoon you won’t soon forget.

Go for a nature walk

Those of us in the Chicago area are spoiled to be surrounded by a number of beautiful nature preserves and natural parks. Look up a few in your surrounding area, then treat your children to an afternoon of adventure. Do your research ahead of time to ensure the park is appropriate for seniors and children alike, as no one wants to get exhausted on the trail.

Afterward (or maybe at a halfway point), settle down with your grandchildren to have a picnic together. Pack foods that can withstand a little heat, if the weather is quite warm. A few great options include fresh fruit, nut butter and jelly sandwiches, carrots, and hard-boiled eggs.

Make ice cream together

Ice cream is the official treat of the summer. Instead of running to your local ice cream parlor for a cone, try making it together. If you would like to purchase an ice cream churner or already have one, that is great. However, did you know that you can make ice cream in a bag? This is especially fun for children, as they get to watch the dessert come together right before their eyes.

Once your frozen treat is complete, assemble a sandwich, put it in a cone, or make a sundae, and go enjoy it together on the porch. Your grandchildren will enjoy having a treat they made themselves, and you will enjoy not having to heat up the kitchen to make it.

Head to your local pond or lake for a fishing day

Though you may want to make sure your grandchildren have the patience for a fishing trip, this outdoor activity gives you the chance to be one with nature for a few hours. If you have mobility issues, research whether or not there is a dock or pier you can cast from. You should also make sure your fishing location will allow you to take your fish home, or if you have to release them.

If you can take them home, you and your grandchildren could enjoy a meal of the fish you caught together. In doing so, the kids will see that hard work really does pay off!

Home care allows you to focus on what’s most important to you

Has running errands grown to be cumbersome? Is housekeeping exhausting? How about your personal care needs? If you struggle with any non-medical activities of daily living, you shouldn’t have to worry about missing out on life. Instead, hire the help of an at-home caregiver so you can focus on what’s most important to you.

Home Care Powered by AUAF has offered older adults the compassionate care they require to age in place for 30 years. Our caregivers are trained in all the latest standards of care, so you can be confident you always receive the support you need. For more information on our home care services, give us a call at 773-274-9262.