Finding Fun and Appropriate Multi-Generational Activities
Our Top Picks for Senior-Friendly Outings in Cleveland
Many families are always on the lookout for opportunities to get together and enjoy an activity or outing. It is so important to include seniors in family gatherings, but settling on an activity or destination that will be safe and fun for all involved can be tricky. If you are trying to find appropriate activities for family members of all generations—including aging seniors—to participate in, make sure you consider the following:
- What are the physical demands involved?
Whether your senior is wheelchair bound or able to walk with or without assistance is probably the most determining factor in where your family can safely go together. Make sure you understand before you set out to any destination whether your senior would need to be able to climb stairs or how far the entrance is from the parking lot or bus stop. Don’t be caught off guard when it comes to the physical demands on your senior.
- What will the crowd levels be?
Navigating a packed crowd can be stressful for anyone, particularly a senior—and especially following months of little to no social activities in a public space. Consider the mental and emotional stress that a highly trafficked area or crowded space might have on your loved one.
- Is the activity enjoyable for all attending?
If you are selecting an activity for family members of all ages, from young children to high schoolers as well as grandparents, consider everyone’s interests. While it is hard to please everyone, the goal is for all family members to have a fun time together. Building those connections around a shared experience is what is most important.
While this is by no means an exhaustive list-and every family will have unique considerations and challenges-here are several potential activities for families and seniors to enjoy in the Greater Cleveland area.
- Take a class—like cooking, pottery, or painting—together.
Depending on your senior’s mobility, she may be able to participate or simply enjoy watching other family members in action. For example, check out Art House, Inc., a local non-profit in Brooklyn Center. They host free monthly art workshops for families led by professional artists.
- Visit Lake Erie to enjoy a sunset.
There are many ADA-accessible trails and viewpoints in Northeast Ohio, such as the pier at Painesville Township Park. When was the last time your senior was able to see the lake and simply enjoy being by the water? Just be sure to check the marine forecast before you go to make sure the water will be calm during your visit. - Spend the morning at the Cleveland Museum of Art.
General admission to the museum is always free, making it a cost-effective choice for the entire family to enjoy together. The museum also features large, open spaces where a senior can feel relaxed and comfortable while enjoying the arts. - Plan a visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Did you know that the National Park Service will work with families to plan an accessible visit to the Cuyahoga Valley? You can also research which facilities, trails, and activities are best for people with physical or mobility challenges, sight impairments, and other challenges before you go.
What other ideas do you have for senior-friendly activities in Cleveland? Have you and your family enjoyed any fun experiences together? We’d love to hear from you. Let us know if we can help or provide any guidance for safely enjoying activities with seniors in your family.
