How Outdoor Games Benefit Assisted Living Residents

Did you know that over 800,000 Americans live in assisted living communities? Outdoor games may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to assisted living, but they offer several benefits and can be adapted to suit participants' abilities. These activities are an engaging way for residents to:

• Stay active
• Socialize
• Enjoy the outdoors

Far from being just entertainment, outdoor games play a vital role in supporting health, happiness, and a sense of community. With Mount Pleasant's mild, temperate climate-warm summers and mild winters-outdoor games can be enjoyed year-round, allowing residents to stay active and engaged no matter the season.

Keep reading to learn how outdoor games can improve assisted living residents' quality of life and well-being.

Physical Benefits of Outdoor Games

Staying physically active is essential as we age, and outdoor games are an enjoyable way to incorporate movement into daily routines. Take a look at these benefits:

• They improve and support mobility and balance
• They boost cardiovascular health
• They help maintain muscle tone and flexibility

Sunlight is vital for the body's production of Vitamin D, which is fundamental to strengthening the immune system and supporting bone health. Regular exposure to sunlight can help maintain bone density and lower the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and fractures in older adults.

Natural light during the day helps regulate the body's internal clock, improving sleep patterns and boosting energy levels. Outdoor activities support heart health by promoting circulation and reducing blood pressure.

Social Interaction and Community Building

As individuals age, they may experience a loss of close family or friends, leading to loneliness. With the proper support, assisted living communities can help residents form new connections and a sense of belonging, and outdoor games provide a natural way for residents to connect with others. Consider the following:

• Group games like croquet or horseshoes promote teamwork and collaboration, helping with socialization
• Playing games together creates a relaxed environment for conversation and laughter
• Shared activities help combat loneliness and strengthen a sense of belonging

Cognitive Stimulation Through Games

Outdoor games are beneficial for the body and the mind. Many games challenge cognitive skills and keep the brain active. Including these games in assisted living community activities can support the following:

Memory and recall

These games help improve memory by requiring players to remember rules, turns, or patterns. For example, games like bocce ball or ring toss involve tracking scores and targeting new throws.

Problem-Solving and Strategy

Strategy games like lawn bowling or simplified chess help players think ahead, plan moves, and make decisions. This mental activity improves problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility.

Focus and concentration

Outdoor games like horseshoes or team activities help residents focus on the task, whether aiming or calculating points. This attention strengthens their focus and concentration.

Emotional Benefits of Outdoor Recreation

Including outdoor games in the activity calendar supports residents' emotional well-being. These activities provide a change of scenery, fresh air, and a sense of joy that can uplift spirits. Benefits to consider include the following:

• Time outdoors helps lower stress and improve mood
• Completing a game can foster a sense of accomplishment
• Regular participation in outdoor games gives residents a sense of purpose to look forward to

Outdoor games also promote independence among residents. Modified activities like lawn bowling or giant Jenga allow participation with minimal help, empowering residents and maintaining their self-esteem and dignity.

Popular Senior-Friendly Outdoor Games

Assisted living communities can use adapted activities for residents to enjoy regardless of physical abilities. Here are some examples of outdoor games well-suited for this purpose:

• Seated ring toss
• Bocce ball is easy to modify
• Seated beanbag toss with closer targets and soft bags is perfect for low-impact participation
• Lawn bowling is a low-impact game that encourages gentle movement and focus
• Giant Jenga with lower blocks suitable for both sitting and standing players
• Balloon toss
• Simple scavenger hunt

Creating a Welcoming Environment for Outdoor Activities

Do you want to make outdoor games enjoyable and accessible for everyone in the community? Consider these key factors:

• Using larger game pieces or modified rules makes games more inclusive for residents with mobility or vision challenges
• Ensuring seating is available allows residents to rest between games and take part comfortably
• Set up umbrellas, canopies, or shaded areas for comfort in all weather conditions
• Plan weekly or monthly outdoor game days for residents to look forward to and encourage participation
• Offer activities to suit various interests and abilities, ensuring everyone enjoys themselves
• Incorporate sensory elements, like sound or texture-based games, for residents with varying abilities
• Ensure the playing area is free of hazards, such as uneven ground or obstacles, to prevent falls and accidents
• Change the types of games regularly to keep things fresh and exciting

Encouraging Resident Participation

Getting residents involved in outdoor games may take some encouragement. Here's how communities can inspire participation:

• Highlight the benefits
• Make sure all games are easy to understand with simple, clear instructions to reduce any confusion or frustration
• Provide positive reinforcement to boost confidence and motivate involvement
• Promote friendly competition by hosting small tournaments or awarding prizes
• Involve family members to create a sense of community and support
• Offer a "no pressure" trial day where residents can try senior-friendly games without the commitment of regular participation
• Make it comfortable and convenient for residents
• Have staff or volunteers available for help as needed
• Create themed or seasonal events

The Lasting Impact of Outdoor Games on Senior Well-Being

Outdoor games are an excellent way for residents to support their physical health and connect with others. Simple games like bocce ball or balloon toss can be easily adapted to suit everyone's abilities so that seniors can continue to enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle in assisted living.

Consider Addington Place of Mt. Pleasant if you want a community that values comfort and connection. Our resident-focused programs, social activities, and on-site care services provide seniors with a fulfilling and stress-free lifestyle. Contact us today to see how we can help you make the most of your golden years!