The Best Senior Summer Activities In Glen Rock

Summer heat waves in New Jersey can send even the outdoorsiest among us indoors. That goes double for seniors, who tend to be less heat-tolerant for a variety of reasons. 

Staying out of the sun in the summer can also lead older adults to missing out on their favorite activities and self-isolating—but not in Glen Rock. We’re lucky to have a wealth of senior summer activities for adults looking to stay cool while still fully enjoying the warmer weather.

Making the Most of Senior Summer Activities in Glen Rock

From outdoor gear that’s both lightweight and stylish to fun ways to keep moving while staying cool and more, seniors in Glen Rock have plenty of options to make the most of their summer. Here’s where to start:

1. Start With the Right Gear

Staying cool, comfortable and safe from the sun is a lot easier with the right supplies. Before heading off on any adventures, head to a local sporting goods store or outdoor outfitter to get your loved one a few wardrobe staples that’ll make a world of difference. Start with:

• UV-Protective Clothing. Many outdoor clothing brands now sell sun hoodies and other UV-protective options. These tops are full-coverage, but breathable, so they block the sun’s rays without causing your loved one to overheat. They’re especially great for anyone who forgets to reapply sunscreen while they’re out.
• A Wide-Brimmed Hat. Aim for a minimum of 3” to protect their face and neck or 5” to protect shoulders as well. Look for tightly-woven synthetic fabrics that will wick away sweat while offering maximum UV protection.
• Sturdy Footwear. It’s tempting to quickly throw on a pair of flip flops to beat the heat, but the wrong sandals go from convenient to tripping hazard quickly. Look for footwear that’s easy to step into, breathable, and has a thick sole with plenty of arch support.

While you’re there, consider picking up extra sunscreen, an insulated water bottle or battery-operated fan if they don’t already have their own.

2. Find Options to Keep Moving and Keep Cool

A trip to the Glen Rock Municipal Pool is one of our favorite local summer activities. Water cools swimmers significantly faster than air while also reducing joint stress and eliminating fall risk. Even better, the pool sits on two manicured acres of land, so you can dry off with a post-swim stroll on cooler days. The pool offers online registration and specific hours for lap swimming if you want to avoid the crowds.

If your loved one isn’t a swimmer, they can take their exercise routine indoors for the summer with a variety of indoor workouts. In addition to group classes, look into personal training. Local personal trainers aren’t just for gym rats looking for intense exercise; they also offer targeted training to help improve balance and flexibility for older adults.

3. Spend Time with Friends Indoors

Our area is home to a large number of active older adults. Whatever your loved one’s favorite hobby, they’re sure to find friends to share it with, especially at the Fair Lawn Senior Center. The Center is free to join and holds events every day except borough holidays. 

Their impressive calendar boasts movie screenings, educational speakers, therapy dog visits, crafting and more. While a few events require advanced registration, many are drop-in.

Older adults can also reserve free transportation with the Center to other activities and even eat lunch there every day they’re open. There’s so much to try that they have trained ambassadors to help new members take advantage of everything on offer.

Home Care Helps Seniors Make the Most of Summer 

There are so many resources to help seniors in the Glen Rock area enjoy the summer to the fullest—they just may need help taking advantage of them.

That’s where FirstLight Home Care of Bergen County comes in. Our caregivers are here to help your loved one enjoy the warmer weather their way, whether that’s accompanying them to the pool, prepping smoothies and salads to keep them nourished without turning on the stove or providing companionship and extra support while they enjoy their favorite summer activities.

If a senior in your life could use support this summer or year round, reach out today to learn about your options.