Staying Active in Appleton, the Fox Cities and Green Bay
Engaging Activities for Seniors with Right at Home
Staying active and engaged in our communities becomes increasingly important as we age for our health and well-being. For seniors living in Appleton, WI, the Fox Cities and Green Bay, there are plenty of opportunities to join in activities to help them remain physically active, mentally diligent, and socially connected in the community.
Getting Back in Touch with Nature
If you are an Appleton native, then you’ll know there are many parks and trails in the area perfect for an afternoon stroll or early morning walk on those hot, hot days. Take your pace more leisurely for a walk in Erb Park, or get a little adventurous for those more active seniors at High Cliff State Park.
These spaces provide a break from the hustle and bustle of life and an escape to the great outdoors, where you and your family can enjoy the beauty of nature.
Recreational Activities in the Fox Cities
Most cities, including Appleton, the Fox Cities and Green Bay, have senior centers. These centers are great places to meet other seniors and participate in activities geared toward that age group. From bingo nights to local excursions to learning a new hobby or attending a luncheon, senior centers provide many opportunities for socialization and friendships to flourish. Additionally, seniors can look into local libraries for book club meet-ups, classes, events, and more.
For information on local area social and recreational activities suitable for seniors, the following Aging and Disability Resource Centers “ADRC” in the following counties offer an entire list of suggested places: Brown County, Calumet County, Outagamie County and Winnebago County.
Physical Fitness and Wellness Opportunities for Seniors
Not every activity is right for every senior, so it is important to find the activities that both benefit you physically and excite you to continue participating in them. Appleton area gyms and rec centers offer a variety of fitness classes designed specifically for seniors to help improve strength and flexibility.
If you are looking to start a new physical fitness program, consider one of these options.
Yoga
Yoga focuses on improving your balance, flexibility, and strength through targeted stretching and breathing exercises meant to tap into both your physical and mental strengths. Yoga is a perfect senior-friendly activity because many poses can be adapted based on your skills and with the help of equipment, such as yoga blocks.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art known for its slow, flowing movements that combine mental focus, coordination, and balance. Tai Chi helps promote overall well-being and can help seniors reduce their risk of falls.
Low-Impact Aerobics
Low-impact Aerobics helps raise your heart rate (in a healthy way) without putting undue stress or strain on your joints. These classes can include a multitude of activities, such as walking, strength training, and dancing. Low-impact Aerobics is a great option for seniors looking to maintain good physical health, especially those needing to improve their cardiovascular health.
Strength Training
Strength training helps you maintain muscle mass and bone density as you age, which is extremely important for seniors who tend to lose both of these things. Participating in a senior-specific strength training program that utilizes resistance bands, light weights, and additional exercises to build and maintain that strength safely is a great option to stay physically fit.
Lap Swimming
One of the best ways to get exercise at any age is to get in a pool. Lap swimming is an independent, full-body workout that strengthens muscle, enhances endurance, and supports cardiovascular health. Check out your local YMCA or gym to find a pool where you can do lap swimming on a regular basis, regardless of the shifty seasons in Appleton, the Fox Cities and Green Bay, WI.
Rehabilitation and Therapy Pools
Recovering from surgery or needing to manage a chronic condition? Rehabilitation and therapy pools provide specialized programs tailored to aid in your recovery and improve your mobility in a safe and supportive environment alongside professionals.
Educational Opportunities in the Fox Valley Region
Lifelong learning is important for keeping the mind sharp and ensuring seniors get out in the community, make connections, and socialize with others. We’ve already touched on libraries and senior centers, but there are additional places where lifelong learning can take place and support you or your loved one in their elder years.
Fox Valley Technical College
Did you know local colleges, like Fox Valley Technical College, offer non-credit courses designed specifically for older adults? Classes cover a huge variety of topics and offer a way to dive into a topic you may be new to or just looking to refine your skills or refresh your memory. These classes offer a great way for personal enrichment and growth, no matter what age you are.
Attending Guest Lectures or Speeches at Local Museums or Cultural Spots
Appleton area organizations, especially museums or cultural institutions, constantly have guest speakers and lecturers on their subject matter. Check out local Appleton, WI locations to figure out how you can engage in these offerings.
● Atlas Science Center
● Trout Museum of Art
● The History Museum at the Castle
Find Local Art Studios or Community Centers for Hands-On Activities
Staying active means exercising the body and the mind, and arts and crafts activities use both. Fine motor skills are just as important as large motor skills with seniors, so finding local art studios or community centers to do arts, crafts, and other activities can help you stay engaged and sharp.
Painting, pottery, cooking, gardening, drawing, and more can help you hone in new or old skills and make friends in the process. These activities tend to be enriching on many levels, offering a supportive and exciting environment to grow in.
Check local libraries, community centers, and local studios to get more involved and stay active in your community.
Right at Home Helps Active Seniors Stay Active in the Fox Cities Green Bay Area.
Staying active and being a part of the community is essential for seniors to thrive as they age. Right at Home Fox Cities and the Green Bay Area helps seniors stay engaged with their community through physical and social activities. The Fox Cities have so many opportunities to explore, both outdoors and indoors, that provide a thriving environment for seniors to remain active.
If you are looking for assistance keeping you or your loved one active, our caregivers at Right at Home are here to help! We offer clients and their families in the Appleton and Green Bay areas in-home care that prioritizes whole-body well-being.
Right at Home tailors care plans to meet your or your loved one's specific needs. We’d love to show you your options or talk to you about in-home care. Give us a call today at (920) 257-4667.
We’re always looking for compassionate, devoted caregivers to join our incredible team at Right at Home in the Fox Cities and Green Bay Area. We have immediate openings for caregivers, Certified Home Health Aides, and Certified Nursing Assistants. Learn more about jumpstarting your exciting career with us today.
