The Best Lehigh Valley Outdoor Activities for People with Dementia

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, the familiar sounds of summer can be heard: songbirds, crickets, lawnmowers, teachers breathing a sigh of relief, and barbers and dental hygienists asking, “What are your vacation plans?”

Not everyone can leave the Lehigh Valley for a popular summer destination—nor does anyone have to. For folks living with dementia, a summer of fun may seem unlikely, but that is not necessarily true. There are plenty of local Lehigh Valley activities available for anyone who is able to participate.

Before we list some local suggestions for summer fun, we at Heather Glen Senior Living would like to remind you of some basics to contribute to a safe, fulfilling, enjoyable summer experience.

• If you will be spending time outside, remember to bring sun protection, e.g., hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent—anything necessary to protect sensitive skin. Oh, and maybe a raincoat or umbrella, just in case!
• Stay hydrated, which is a fancy way of saying, “Drink a lot of water.” This is true for you and your loved one, even if the weather is not oppressively hot. The other side of the coin is to familiarize yourself with the location of restrooms, just in case.
• If special mobility or access accommodations are needed, check on availability ahead of time.
• Tailor activities to your loved one’s likes and physical and mental abilities.
• Keep to familiar locations and activities if your loved one is easily disoriented.
• Encourage social interaction when possible.
• Although we mention it last, remember this: SAFETY FIRST! Don’t take chances with your loved one’s health. Know their limitations so you can keep an eye on them. Beware of wandering, handling dangerous items or animals, eating harmful things, etc.

Heather Glen Senior Living in Allentown offers a full slate of exciting programs, both onsite and through outings. But there are times when you’ll want to take your loved one out for summer fun. Here are a few Lehigh Valley spots where you can venture out for adventure.

1. Rodale Institute, Kutztown, is a leader in organic agriculture. Their 386-acre farm offers tours and events all year. One option is the golf cart tour, June through October. Preregistration is required at $20 per person.
2. Macungie Memorial Park Pool, “The Fun Pool,” is one of many public pools in the Lehigh Valley. A good swim or just a dip can be relaxing and refreshing. Macungie Memorial Park itself has a calendar of events that includes car shows, vendors, craft and food fairs, and other low-involvement but stimulating events.
3. Eating may not sound like a special activity, but it can take on a whole new atmosphere when planned al fresco. Many Lehigh Valley restaurants feature outside dining areas but the views often consist of sidewalks or roads. You will probably want to take your loved one to a quiet location that features views of trees, water, birds, squirrels (OK, and maybe a few ants). Pack a picnic lunch and head out to one of the Lehigh Valley’s best picnic locations.
4. Birds of a feather flock together, and you can watch them at many locations throughout the Lehigh Valley. One of the best places for birdwatching and other “get-to-know-the-great-outdoors” activities is the Trexler Nature Preserve. There are hiking, biking, and horse riding trails, buena vistas, and an ADA-accessible covered bridge. Keep an eye out for mourning doves—they are silly to watch and silly to listen to. Don’t forget binoculars, a bird ID book or app, and a camera!
5. Sometimes, animals are referred to as “dumb animals.” But to their credit, animals seem to know how to lift the spirits of a person suffering from sadness, depression, or loneliness. So, what better place to introduce your loved one to a variety of furry, funny, and feathered friends than the Lehigh Valley Zoo, the home of “Smart Fun”? Visiting the animals is like taking a trip around the world as you meet an Argentine Black and White Tegu, a Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig, and a Tawny Frogmouth. The zoo also schedules events for all ages. The zoo is ADA-accessible and Sensory Inclusive Certified.
6. Stay at home. What? If your budget or your loved one’s current condition doesn’t allow for an outing, find things to do at your house. Things that are commonplace to you or don’t seem very exciting can stimulate your loved one’s senses, provide exercise, and help build relationships. Here are some simple activities.
   1. Feed the birds
   2. Play catch, cornhole, quoits, horseshoes, bubbles
   3. Plant a plant; water plants; weed; pick flowers
   4. Take a walk or a short ride
   5. Invite the grandkids (Enough said!)
   6. Cook, bake, boil, or barbecue
   7. Figure out something else

Whether planned or casual, the goal is to enjoy the great outdoors!

If you’re interested in learning more about life at Heather Glen Senior Living or would like to see our community for yourself, give us a call at (610) 841-4478 or fill out our online form today.