5 ways to keep active in Enfield during summer

• As people get older, hot temperatures can make it harder for them to exercise.
• Better than none, a small amount of physical activity is beneficial.
• Gym or runs aren't the only options; physical activity doesn’t have to be high-intensity workouts.
• Exercise still counts even if it's light activity.
• Follow our tips to help keep your loved ones active.

Why is it important to keep exercising as we age?

1. Regular exercise among older individuals can enhance their immune system, reducing susceptibility to diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
2. Exercise contributes to muscle strength and tone, decreasing the likelihood of falls and injuries.
3. Sustained physical activity not only promotes a healthy brain but also enhances overall mental well-being.
4. Committing to 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise supports optimal heart function.
5. With aging, the risk of heart disease escalates, particularly in individuals with a high BMI, with 1 in 6 heart and circulatory diseases in the UK being linked to excess body weight.
6. Cardiovascular activities benefit not only heart and lung health but also support brain function.

1 Discover Enfield’s most beautiful parks on foot

• Walking is not just good for physical health but mental health as well
• It is a great way to socialise
• We’ve listed some of our favourite parks in Enfield below

If taking your loved one out in the sun make sure they wear sun protection, there is plenty of shade for them to break under and always bring a water bottle

2 Get social at Enfield’s family-friendly pubs

• Social activities can be as beneficial to older people as physical ones
• Getting elderly friends/parents out the house for a coffee can keep their brains active
• If you have children bring them along as research shows that interactions between older people and children can keep help both parties learn and develop

3 Peak their interests

• Summer activities don’t have to involve exercise.
• As long as you are keeping their body and brain active many activities can be useful
• Draw on their hobbies and making it fun for them.
• Things such as knitting, crafting and cooking can be great for motor skills and brain activity.

4 Make the most of cooler mornings by gardening first thing

• Gardening is a great way of keeping active but can be harder when the weather is hot
• Try to get out in the garden before 10am or after 6pm when temperatures are more manageable
• The activity will get their body moving and brain working
• Gardening can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation
• There are adaptive tools to make gardening easier for older people, such as arm grips and long reach hoes
• Make sure there are still shaded spots in the garden to take any short breaks

5 Do small things inside when the sun is at its hottest

The hottest part of the day is between 11am – 3pm

• It’s advisable to stay inside during these times, stay in a cool room and avoid strenuous activity
• There are little things you can do around the house that still count as exercise
• Light cleaning around the house e.g. dusting or sweeping
• Making the bed
• Making cups or teas or healthy food
• Seated exercises like leg raises, back stretches, twists or simply standing up and sitting down a few times an hour. They can improve motor skills and strengthen the body
• Walking around the house
• Take regular breaks and sit down when needed
• When you call your loved ones remind them to move around the house

What can you get involved in Enfield this summer?

As a start, Enfield council has announced the dates for Enfield Summer fest https://www.enfield.gov.uk/news-and-events/2022/07/summer-street-festivals-return-to-enfield

How Right at Home Enfield can help your loved ones keep active this summer

If you are based in Enfield and feel that your parents or loved ones need a bit of extra support or encouragement to get moving, in-home care can be a great solution. Our CareGivers can offer companionship services that will help your loved ones keep moving and elevate some of the pressure you may feel.

Companionship can offer Clients much-needed conversation and mental stimulation, as well as encourage them to get out and about or take part in hobbies.

Visit our services page to see how else we could support your loved ones

Call to Action

If you think we can help you or your loved one stay active this summer, please get in touch with our Enfield team today at 020 3967 7500