Opportunities abound to make memories with family this summer, with multiple generations gathering to enjoy each other in ways that are both fun and therapeutic. Local outings are another way to spend time with a loved one. Family and friends of those living here at our Lynden health care center, for example, can go online to schedule outings with their medically able loved ones.
If you are out and about, please remember to take careful COVID-19 precautions and to wear plenty of sunscreen!
Here are some ideas for things to do with your parents or grandparents during the summer months and beyond:
- Take picnic to one of the many area parks. Here in Lynden, you can enjoy the Centennial Park, City Park, Bender Fields, Berthusen Park, Greenfield Village, Patterson Park, Northwood Lynden Jim Park and Jim Kaemingk Sr Trail. Visit the city’s Parks Department for more info. Outside of town, the opportunities grow even more, with favorites such as Hovander Homestead Park just down the road.
- Enjoy a local sporting event. Bender Fields hosts community sporting events throughout the summer, including youth and adult soccer, softball and lacrosse.
- Learn about local history. According to its website, the Lynden Pioneer Museum has the largest collection of horse drawn vehicles west of the Mississippi.
- Attend a family event. The Lynden Chamber of Commerce maintains a calendar that shows upcoming events slated for the summer, including the Lynden Farmers Day Parade (July 17) and Vintage Farming Days at Berthusen Park (Aug. 4–7).
- Go window shopping along Front Street. Because walking can help seniors maintain balance and prevent falls, a stroll up and down the sidewalks in quaint downtown Lynden can serve as a fun activity while also promoting good health.
Be sure to follow these summer safety tips for seniors while you’re out.
Summer outings can help improve common health complaints among seniors living independently and those living in long-term care, so get out there with your parents and/or grandparents and enjoy the lovely Whatcom County sunshine. And while you’re out having fun, keep an eye out for our residents enjoying a ride on CHCC’s new trishaw bikes!