While enjoying life in a senior living community, taking day trips around your town can be beneficial. The Global Coalition on Aging produced a 2013 survey reporting seventy percent of older Americans found taking trips mentally stimulating. More than eight percent of individuals found trips improved moods, physical well-being, and reduced stress. Life can be busy. Senior homes, like Beacon Crest Senior Living, offer a full schedule of exercise classes, daily activities, gourmet meals, movie nights, and celebration events. If you prefer to stay at home, you will have everything you need within your community. Medical staff will be available 24/7 while the executive chef prepares delectable meals. You will be surrounded by friends while participating in events provided by the activity staff. Some factors can be beneficial when the opportunity arises to have an adventure away from home. A change of scenery can be stimulating mentally and emotionally. Seeing new things while being on another excursion with friends creates a stronger friendship bond and has the potential to improve your mood while reducing stress. Here are a few ideas for fun day trips.
MUSEUMS AND LIBRARIES
Organizing a quiet trip to appreciate literature or the preservation of historical artifacts can be inspirational and educational. Libraries are not just for checking out books anymore. There is a multitude of community services provided at your local library. There are story hours for children, book clubs, foreign language courses, access to workshops, and crafting events. You can schedule a time to use a computer, check out a Wi-fi hotspot and iPad, or print documents. Do you need help researching a topic? Librarians are there to help you with your search. Would you like to learn more about the area in which you live? Museums can offer an insider’s look at the town’s history, educate on the natural environment, or showcase the local artists. Types of museums include art museums, science centers, children’s museums, maritime museums, and natural history museums. Whatever your interests are, museums will offer information and new experiences for you.
PARKS AND TRAILS
Never underestimate the power of fresh air and sunshine while listening to the sounds of nature. Did you know that spending time outside can reduce stress levels, increase serotonin and vitamin D, and strengthen the immune system? The World Health Organization reports active adults to have a lower risk of heart-related illnesses, healthier muscle mass, and better cognitive abilities. Walking four hours per week can aid with arthritis pain and maintain bone density. It is helpful to find a hiking buddy. While this increases safety while enjoying the outdoors, it has the added benefit of building social connections. The Washington Trails Association recommends choosing trails that match your physical capabilities. Be prepared with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. It is imperative to stay safe. Many hikers find peace of mind by turning on the location on their cell phones. Senior living communities will organize many of these details if you prefer to explore hiking trails on a group trip. If you decide to take a personal trip making time to research the best trails and equipment to bring with you can help your experience be one to remember.
CONCERTS AND THEATRE PRODUCTIONS
Sit back, relax, and be entertained. Who doesn’t love music concerts and musical productions? The Healthline organization reports music exerts a powerful influence on human beings. There are many reported benefits of music. Music can boost memory, build task endurance, lighten your mood, reduce anxiety and depression, avert fatigue, improve pain responses, and help during workouts. Music can also improve sleep, strengthen learning and memory, and increase your overall health. What about viewing a live theatrical performance? Attending live theater can stimulate creativity, engage your imagination, and help build empathy through storytelling. Storytelling is the cultural sharing of stories. Each culture maintains its own narratives as a bridge to preserving culture, supporting moral values, and providing entertainment. Would you like to combine the benefits of both music and theatre? Research the local theater’s show schedule. Many plays are straight plays, also known as plays without music. Do you want to enjoy a spectacular musical which includes song and dance? Attend a musical theater production such as The Sound of Music. You can enjoy wonderful acting, choreographed dance numbers, and brilliantly composed music.
SEASONAL FESTIVALS
Who does not love attending a craft fair, farmer’s market, or music festival? Local festivals are an excellent way to celebrate the changes of season. Whether it be a Spring Jamboree, Fall Pumpkin Festival, or Winter Carnival, being involved in community activities reminds residents their senior living community is part of a larger community. Are you concerned with finding the time to attend events? These day trips can last an hour or two, or you can involve your family members and make a day of it. Spending time at an outdoor festival can combine the benefits of being outside, listening to music, observing the local culture, and enjoying delicious food. Whether residents prefer to take day trips with their senior living community, like Beacon Crest Senior Living, or with their families, balancing time at home with time in the community can be beneficial. Enjoy a trip to a museum, attend a musical concert, connect with nature during a hike, or spend an evening at the theatre. Whichever event you choose, staying active while increasing social connections is another opportunity to improve your life.