Building happy memories, getting out of the house and staying active are important life goals at any age, but in families with seniors, it’s important to choose activities that are stimulating without being exhausting or dangerous. Here are some popular day trips for seniors in the Columbus area:
Indoor Day Trips for Seniors
The benefits of social stimulation for mental and physical health are undeniable. Extreme weather conditions can make it difficult to get senior family members out for activities and day trips, but there are a few local areas that make for great indoor destinations.
The Columbus Museum of Art is a community favorite. It’s wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and admission is free on Sundays. Guests enjoy the traveling exhibits as well as the rotating favorites from the museum’s collection. It’s different each time you visit, and they have plenty to interest all age groups. It makes an excellent day trip, especially when you add a stop to the onsite restaurant.
The Franklin Park Conservatory is often thought of as a fair-weather destination because of the outdoor gardens, but their art galleries, greenhouses and butterfly room are fascinating no matter what’s happening outside. Other guests advise visitors to pay a little extra for the pamphlet in the butterfly room that gives interesting facts about the butterflies as well as a checklist of the names of the butterflies you might come across.
Shopping can be fun, especially for folks who are used to living in a world before online shopping. If an analog shopping experience sounds like the day trip you’re looking for, check out Easton Shopping Mall or Polaris Fashion Place for shopping, dining and entertainment in one convenient stop. Know that there’s a first aid office at both of these shopping centers, and mall security can summon help quickly.
Outdoor Day Trips for Seniors
Fresh air, sunshine and a stroll through the park are healthy ways to spend time at any age. For a senior, it’s important to make sure outdoor walkways are well maintained; unstable footing can lead to accidents. Both the Columbus Zoo and Metro Parks strive to keep walkways safe for visitors of all ages.
Columbus Zoo might sound like a daunting trip for a senior; walking around at the zoo all day can wear out a little kid, and they’re known to have infinite energy levels. Seniors can take it slow, focusing on just the animals they want to see and strolling at a leisurely pace. The zoo also rents out wheelchairs and electric scooters which can make it easier to get around the park. The zoo also has ongoing programs that welcome seniors for enrollment, like art classes and volunteer conservation activities.
If you’re looking for something a little quieter, Metro Parks serves both Columbus and Franklin Counties. They offer a variety of outdoor experiences, like picnic pavilions, fishing, nature preserves and nature centers, as well as more adventurous activities like hiking and boating. Spending time in nature can reduce depression, which never sounds like a bad idea.
If you want to stop in for a tour or contact us about the fun ways we help seniors stay active and in their home, check out our website at Friendship at Home or call us today.