Summer gives you more daylight and more reason to be outside, the right season to build up your social calendar. July is Social Wellness Month, and outdoor group activities are an easy way to combine fresh air with the kind of regular company that supports both mood and health. Browse our guide for seniors looking to increase their social interaction this summer.
Discovering Local Group Activities
Local parks run their busiest programming in July, from guided walks to outdoor games and community events. Check the Algonquin Area Public Library and the park district websites. Farmers' markets are another reliable option. It draws a regular crowd of familiar faces, and striking up a conversation with a fellow shopper is easier once you become a regular.
Starting Your Own
If nothing on the local calendar fits, consider organizing something yourself. A weekly morning walk around a park, a lawn bowling meetup, or a standing outdoor coffee hour can all start with just two or three people and grow from there. Post a note at your community center or ask neighbors directly. Most people are looking for the same kind of low-pressure invitation you are.
Keeping the Momentum Going
The hardest part of any new activity isn't the first time. It’s the regularity of showing up. Put a recurring event on your calendar. Groups that meet at the same time and place every week tend to be more enduring.
Staying Safe in the Summer Heat
Outdoor activity in July means paying attention to heat, especially during the hottest hours of early afternoon. Schedule group activities for the morning or early evening when possible, bring water even for short outings, and take breaks in the shade if you're out for more than 20 or 30 minutes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that older adults stay especially alert to heat exhaustion symptoms such as dizziness, excessive sweating, and headache, since the body's ability to regulate temperature changes with age.
Preparing for Outdoor Time
Wear light, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Pack a small bag with water and a snack if you're heading out for a longer walk or event. These planning details make your outdoor group time more comfortable and safe.
Summertime Is Social Time
Take advantage of a season of good weather. Outdoor group activities offer an easy way to combine exercise, fresh air, and company. Always consult with a doctor before starting any physical exercise routine or activity.
For residents of Huntley, South Elgin, Cary, Carpentersville, and Gilberts, our team at Senior Helpers Algonquin can help arrange transportation and companion support to make it easier to get out and stay social all summer. Contact us to learn more.