Active Aging Presented by Public Health Seattle-King County
As the August sun makes being outside almost unbearable, it’s tempting to stay put at home. With a little bit of creativity, though, you can find activities to keep you occupied (and cool!) all month long.
Indoor Community Activities
Center your August plans around indoor activities that will get you out of the house and into a well-air-conditioned space.
Museum Visits
Heading to your local museum or art gallery is the perfect way to spend a hot August day. Many venues have rotating exhibits, so make a list of the summer attractions that you don’t want to miss. Lectures and special events often include admission to the entire venue, so your ticket is well worth the cost. Check for discount days that give special senior rates or offer low-cost entry for locals.
Movies and Plays
The movie theater is a quintessential summer destination, and for good reason! You can spend two hours being entertained in a comfortable, air-conditioned space. Many cities have dollar theaters that show older films once a week with discounted rates or modern theaters that serve a meal alongside the movie. If you’re a fan of local art, swap the movie theater for the community theater and attend a local play. These tickets are often inexpensive, and the actors are grateful for an enthusiastic audience.
Local Recitals and Exhibitions
Check your city’s events calendar for local gatherings, recitals, and exhibitions. The children’s section is a great place to find events that are often free and low-cost, even if you don’t attend with the grandkids! Many of these events take place in local churches, auditoriums, and community spaces, so it’s a great way to find hidden spots around town that are out of the heat.
Volunteer Opportunities
Your indoor activities aren’t limited to being a spectator; get out there and volunteer! August is a great time to check with local organizations that operate summer programs and see what needs they have unfulfilled as they wrap up the season.
Local Libraries
Head to your local library and ask to volunteer this month! You can check the schedule of events ahead of time to see what skills you bring to the table. Craft sessions, story time, book clubs, and even music lessons happen at the library. You can also volunteer to shelve books and assist patrons, all in the comfort of indoor air-conditioning.
Back-to-School Drives
Many schools across the country head back in August or early September, so back-to-school drives are in full swing. Clothing collections, school supply drives, and even child safety seminars are popular August activities. Volunteer to help coordinate an event and schedule the activity for an indoor location. You can help the community and stay cool at the same time!
Conventions and Festivals
Even though many summer conventions and festivals happen outdoors, some use indoor city spaces and concert venues. Check your city’s events calendar to see what performances or meetings are coming to town, and volunteer to help. Venues often need a wide variety of volunteers, and you can usually get free perks as a reward for your time.
Outdoor Experiences
You don’t have to avoid being outside for the entire month of August. You just have to be more strategic about your plans!
Early Morning Walks
There’s no way around it: Early morning is the best time to be outside during August. Schedule walks for a pre-breakfast routine. If you need an incentive to head outside earlier than usual, research local wildlife in your area and make a list of the creatures you might spot on a neighborhood walk at dawn.
DIY Cooling Gear
If there are outdoor activities you’d like to enjoy in the afternoon and evening, make sure to be prepared with proper attire and equipment to beat the heat. A wide-brimmed hat is essential, and lightweight long sleeves and pants will actually keep you cooler than shorts and t-shirts. For a DIY cooling trick, soak rolled bandanas in water and freeze overnight before your outing. Put one around your neck so that it keeps you cool outside, and use a small, portable battery fan.
Trees, Water, and Mountains
Anywhere with trees, water, or higher elevations will instantly make things cooler. Consider driving a bit further than your usual route to find new outdoor spaces to explore. Check with your local ranger department for maps that show easy walking trails near lakes or through wooded areas. You can head outside in the late afternoon if your destination will be shielded by trees on the western side, putting you and your picnic dinner in the shade.
Local Pools
Investigate joining a local country club or community organization that has access to outdoor pools and shade structures. A senior summer membership can be surprisingly affordable and will give you a nice spot to relax on hot afternoons.
With a bit of creativity, you can beat that August heat!
Active Aging is presented by Public Health- Seattle & King County. Public Health- Seattle & King County recognizes the important and untold stories of innovation, service, and sacrifice by the Black community and supports efforts to improve equity and achieve social justice. We want everyone to get health insurance and access health care. Visit www.kingcounty.gov/health for health insurance, flu and COVID-19 testing locations.
