7 Fun Summer Activities for Seniors in Visalia, CA
Seniors who are physically active and socially engaged usually enjoy better health, a longer life expectancy, and an overall higher quality of life. According to the National Council of Aging (NCOA), doing two types of physical activity weekly can prevent health problems in older adults, helping them safeguard their independence. When these activities involve interacting with others, they can help slow cognitive decline and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Senior living in Visalia, CA, provides the perfect opportunity for this, especially during summer. Located in the heart of California's Central Valley, the city is recognized for more than its rich agricultural history. It also has a mix of renowned architecture, two of the nation's most beautiful national parks, and a vibrant downtown area, giving residents various options for fun summer activities.
Seniors can enjoy outdoor activities such as Senior Day in the Park or engage socially indoors while shopping or trying new restaurants.
Visalia's welcoming environment, especially for seniors, ensures everyone can enjoy many fun summer activities. Here are 7 you can explore.
1. Nature Walks in Local Parks
Visalia is known as the "gateway to the Sequoias" because it is near Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. Both provide perfect scenic backdrops, facilitating summer recreation for older adults.
In addition to exploring the giant sequoia trees, you can discover the parks' landscapes by walking the trails, camping, or wildlife viewing. Nature walks in Visalia's local parks allow seniors to enjoy gentle exercise and fresh air, which offers many benefits, including improved physical and mental well-being.
For seniors who prefer staying closer to home, the Walnut Park Senior Living community has secure courtyards and walking paths residents can enjoy while interacting with their neighbors.
2. Gardening and Community Gardening Projects
Gardening is among the outdoor activities widely enjoyed by US seniors and is associated with better cardiovascular health and a lower risk of diabetes for adults 65 and over, according to the National Library of Medicine. Other benefits of gardening include:
- Gentle physical activity: involves bending, lifting, and reaching, which can enhance mobility, strength, and flexibility
- Social interaction and community engagement: gardening clubs or community gardens create opportunities for seniors to connect with others, fostering a sense of belonging
- Mental well-being: it is a therapeutic activity that reduces stress and improves mood
Visalia offers several community gardening opportunities through clubs such as the Visalia Succulent Club and Sequoia Garden Club. Walnut Park residents can also enjoy the community's private garden.
3. Water Aerobics and Swimming
Summers in Visalia are hot and dry, increasing the appeal of outdoor activities that involve immersing in bodies of water. Swimming and water aerobics provide a much-needed cooldown while improving seniors' physical health.
Water aerobics is an excellent, low-impact, joint-friendly exercise as the buoyancy of the water helps support body weight, reducing stress on joints while allowing for a full-body workout. Other benefits include:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Enhanced muscle strength and endurance
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- A boost to mental well-being through social interaction
Although beneficial, those with severe joint pain should consult a healthcare provider before participating.
Seniors in Visalia, CA, can interact with others during swimming and water aerobics classes at the Kaweah Health Lifestyle Fitness Center's 25-yard lap pool or the warm water therapy pool.
Water aerobics is a popular Visalia senior living care activity, along with yoga and other group fitness classes.
4. Outdoor Concerts and Summer Dances
Outdoor events like concerts and dances provide seasonal fun for seniors, especially as Visalia has many in the summer. Some featured events include:
- The Visalia Summer Fest: a free outdoor festival held at the Visalia Convention Center
- Boots, Brews & Bacon Festival: featuring live entertainment, line dancing, and food and drink samples, also held at the Visalia Convention Center
- Harvest Nights at Big L Ranch: occurs on Saturdays in summer and features live music and other activities
Although not outdoors, the Visalia Fox Theatre hosts various live music events, including the Father's Day Mariachi Festival. If you're a Toby Keith fan, you can also enjoy a tribute to him being held at the theatre this month.
Live music and dancing foster a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle for seniors. It promotes physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive stimulation in enjoyable and engaging ways.
5. Scenic Drives and Day Trips
Active aging goes beyond physical exercise. It also involves activities that promote mental stimulation and reduce stress and loneliness. Scenic drives to Sequoia National Park or through the Sierra Nevada foothills allow you to experience both. Enjoying nature from the comfort of a car is ideal for seniors with varying mobility levels.
Many Visalia senior living communities organize scheduled outings for residents, or you can opt for a self-guided tour at your own pace.
6. Games and Friendly Competitions
If you love the friendly rivalry of games and competitions, you'll probably enjoy participating in the annual Visalia Senior Games held in March. Thankfully, the excitement can continue even after the closing ceremony. Many of the events included in the games are offered at different venues around Visalia in the summer.
There is a summer series cornhole league at the Anthony Community Center and a pickle-brawl scramble at Plaza Park for pickleball lovers. Other activities such as disc golf and table tennis are also available at venues throughout Visalia, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of friendly competition, teamwork, and staying active.
7. Fun at Sequoia Springs Water Park
Sequoia Springs at Visalia Adventure Park is the perfect summer destination for those interested in less structured activities. The Park offers senior discounts and accessible amenities for medical equipment like wheelchairs.
You can also opt for dry spectator tickets to enjoy entertainment options like mini-golf, arcades, and laser tag. The venue is perfect for all ages, providing a fun day of enjoyment with family or friends.
Stay Engaged and Active With Fun Summer Activities
Fun summer activities allow seniors to stay physically active and socially engaged. Although only seven are mentioned above, Visalia has many more.
Trying new activities is the perfect way to connect and explore Visalia with your neighbors at Walnut Park. You can start with the full calendar of enriching activities we offer at the community or our scheduled off-site events. Contact us to ensure you have a fun-filled, active summer!