It’s time to take advantage of the hot summer temperatures. A Harvard Health study showed that time spent in the sun increases vitamin D levels and improves mood. Getting outside to bask in the sun provides mental and emotional benefits, encourages light exercise, and allows for socialization. In the interests of health and safety, seniors can experience these outdoor activities this summer.
take a dip
Swimming is a great way to cool off from the summer heat, and it’s also a great way to incorporate physical activity. Some might just dip their feet in the pool, while others might do low-impact water aerobics or swim laps around the pool. The Bellevue Aquatic Center offers two indoor pools, a hot spring therapy pool and a lagoon pool. Other pool options to consider are the PRO Club, Peter Kirk Pool, Juanita Aquatic Center, and Redmond Pool. Seniors can also stop at the supervised swimming beaches at Meydenbauer Bay Park, Lake Sammamish State Park, and Juanita Beach.
Attend community events
Summer is the perfect time for community events and local festivals. With everything from art exhibits to free concerts in the parks, there are plenty of community events that provide opportunities for seniors to get out and about.
Bellevue Downtown Arts Market is back for its 31st year of producing outdoor markets, with over 100 selected local artists. Find jewelry, art, sculptures and more on July 30 and 31. 106th Avenue NE and NE Sixth Street, Bellevue
The Town of Kirkland presents its 10th annual Kirkland Summerfest, July 29-31. The festival includes a street market, concerts, and wine and beer festivals. Marina Park, Kirkland
Shakespeare in the park presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream, from July 7 to August. 7, in Puget Sound area parks.
Walk and watch the birds
For many seniors, outdoor activities can significantly improve their quality of life. If a walk is possible, start slowly and work your way up to longer walks. While on the move, take advantage of the scenery for birdwatching – don’t forget binoculars.
Seniors can connect with the outdoors in the relaxing surroundings of Bellevue Botanical Garden. They can admire the plants and flowers while strolling through the 53 acres of cultivated gardens, restored forests and natural wetlands. This summer, the Botanical Garden is offering a series of Flower Hour Summer Samplers for those interested in the garden’s horticultural diversity through September 8.
St. Edward State Park is a beautiful 316-acre park in Kenmore with 3,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Washington. Seniors can enjoy the peaceful scenery, stroll along the shores of the lake, soak up the rich history of the park, and watch the birds.
In Bellevue, Mercer Slough Nature Park sits on 326 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and forests. Mercer Slough is home to 170 species of birds and animals, including beavers and great blue herons. Seniors will appreciate the trails, the environmental education centre, the blueberry field and the picnic areas.
Use these ideas as a springboard for creating an enjoyable summer routine. Be sure to schedule outdoor activities before the hottest time of day to avoid too much heat exposure.
