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After a long winter spent mostly indoors, spring is a welcome time for many seniors. Abundant sunshine, warm temperatures, and blooming flowers lift the mood and renew the spirit, and getting out in the thick of it all is good for body and soul. Here, then, are eight springtime activities the senior in your life will likely enjoy.

1. Go on a nature walk. Hit the trail at the city park, botanical gardens, or even the zoo for a stroll through nature. Bring along a pair of binoculars to get an up-close look at birds and other wildlife.
2. Stroll the Farmer’s Market. The cool, early morning hours of the farmer’s market keep you comfortable during a stroll along the stalls, picking out fresh produce and flowers or just browsing the wares. Grab an ice cream cone or a cup of coffee and park it on a bench to people-watch and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
3. Go fishin’. Head to a local water hole for some fishing. Rent a boat and paddle the lake looking for a good spot, or set up camp on a dock, bridge, or other favorite local fishing spot for a few hours of solitude and the chance to bring home dinner.
4. Dine al fresco. Whether a picnic at a local park or a visit to a sidewalk cafe, dining outdoors makes the experience special. A patio barbecue with friends or family is a nice way to enjoy a spring evening with the people you love best.
5. Enjoy the birds. A bird feeder outside the living room window or on the patio draws all manner of birds. On days when the weather isn’t the best for outdoor activity, let nature come to you.
6. Plant a garden. A large body of research shows that gardening is a great activity for reducing stress and feelings of isolation as well as lowering blood pressure and improving physical and mental health and wellbeing. Plant an herb garden in containers or in a window box, or participate in a community garden.
7. See a local performance. Check your city’s event calendar for some fun outdoor events. Many cities offer outdoor movies, concerts, and plays in civic spaces, and these events are often free. Pack a snack and some cold drinks and enjoy the entertainment your town has to offer.
8. Play games on the patio. Just hanging around at home in the springtime offers opportunities to sit on the patio and enjoy the songbirds and refreshing breezes. Grab some friends for a game of cards or a board game to pass the time on a lazy afternoon.

Spending time in the fresh air in spring before the heat of summer descends is a great time for seniors to get out and get active, and it’s the perfect opportunity to engage in enriching outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy. So grab your favorite senior and make a day of it, but don’t forget the sunscreen and plenty of bottled water.