Doing regular physical activity has plenty of benefits, whatever age you’re in. However, as we age, it can be one of the most important things we can do for our health.
Being active helps us prevent or delay some health issues that arise as we get older like keeping our bones and muscles stronger. This makes it easier to do everyday activities without the need for assistance in old-age homes near you.
Physical activity also benefits us mentally and socially. Moving our bodies releases endorphins that make us feel good. When we’re in the company of like-minded people in senior living homes, it’s the perfect recipe for a great time.
Outdoor Games to Keep Us Active in Senior Independent Living Near You
There is a lot to choose from when it comes to physical activities. When you want to combine fitness and fun, playing games is a great option. In senior living homes, there are many low-impact games active seniors love to play, like bocce ball and croquet.
The two games may look similar, as both use similar-looking balls to play. However, they are very different in how they are played.
Bocce Ball
What you’ll need:
- A bocce ball set (8 bocce balls, a pallino or jack, and a measuring tool)
- Ample outdoor space, like a yard or grassy park area
- A minimum of two and a maximum of 8 players
The goal of the game is to score points by throwing your team’s bocce balls closest to the pallino or jack. A player tosses the jack underhand. The same player throws the first bocce ball. Team members will alternate throwing bocce balls until all have been thrown. Then, the distance of the bocce balls to the jack is measured to determine which team gets the point.
Croquet
Croquet is an excellent alternative to golf. It uses a mallet to pass the ball through various hoops around your play or game area. You can do singles or play in teams.
What you’ll need:
- A croquet set (6 mallets, 6 balls, 9 hoops or wickets, 2 stakes)
- A minimum of two, and a maximum of 6 players
- Outdoor space large enough to space out the hoops
The space must be set up before the game starts. The hoops are placed in designated areas, with the stakes marking opposite sides. The goal is to get your ball through each hoop in a particular sequence. The first person to complete all hoops wins the game.
Fun & Engaging Activities in Old Age Homes Near You
Take advantage of the many benefits of outdoor physical activities, whatever you may choose. Have fun and get social with your friends at Livita Retirement Residences.
Here, we believe that a balanced lifestyle is a better lifestyle. It is important for us that residents are fulfilled not just physically, but mentally and socially. Activities like games and sports let our active seniors do just that.
Looking for senior independent living near you? Choose one that gives you plenty of opportunities to thrive! Choose Livita Retirement Residences today. Contact us to learn more about our community.
