September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and World Alzheimer’s Day reminds us of the importance of connection, movement, and joy for those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Whether you’re a caregiver, friend, or family member, the park offers countless ways to create meaningful moments. Here are easy, uplifting activities to try together—plus practical tips for making each experience positive and stress-free.
Quick Note: The park space itself was designed to maximize accessibility and promote safety. This means that parking is nearby, there is a bathroom onsite, the sidewalks are flat and wide, and the space is surrounded by a split rail fence and natural barriers. We want folks to wander, explore, seek, find, and roam safely… outdoors! And we want caregivers to do the same. It’s what humans were designed to do!
1. Just Walk
- The pathways were designed for side-by-side strolls.
- The fencing is a natural barrier that supports wandering (aka “exploring”) for solo walking.
- Walk the three loops (250 ft, 300 ft, 450 ft).
Caregiver Tip:
Use short, reassuring phrases and walk side-by-side, or ask trivia or reminiscing questions. Just keep it easy-breezy.
2. “Find the Birds” Scavenger Hunt
- The sign is in the back right corner.
- Look for the bird statues that are placed around the park space.
- Hint: Look up!
Encourages visual scanning, memory recall (“We found a bluebird earlier!”), and cognitive engagement. Turn it into a cooperative game rather than a competition—celebrate each find.
3. Balance and Movement Play
- Practice straddling or walking a few heel-to-toe steps on the log bridge.
- Practice walking across the surface challenge.
- Use the parallel bars for squats and leg raises.
- Step up and down from the “step up” using the bar as needed.
- Count out loud while walking around the column from the Up and Go. Try to get faster each time.
Gamify the activities to make them feel playful and fun. There is no “wrong” way to move. Counting to 5 or 10 for activities is familiar and automatic.
4. Seated Social Time
- Sit on a bench and people-watch!
- Pack a picnic and sit together under the gazebo.
- Sit on a bench under a tree and just feel nature—draw attention to the natural elements and how they make you feel (wind, heat, chilly, bright, cloudy). This is great for promoting a sense of self in the environment.
Not everything needs to be planned or orchestrated. Just being in nature supports emotional connection and provides a calming break, reducing agitation, anxiety, and depression.
5. Mini Putting or Ball Games
- Roll a golf ball toward a hole or use a putter.
- Bring a ball and do bounce-and-catch.
- Dribble a basketball.
Keep sessions short and positive, focusing on enjoyment rather than performance.
Bonus: Anything Repetitive!
Repetitive activities are soothing for the nervous system.
- Walk!
- Bike!
- Arm bike!
- Sing!
- March!
Every visit to the park can be a chance to connect, move, and create joy – no matter the time of year or where you are on the Alzheimer’s journey. Download our printable handout for easy reference on your next outing! Park Activities for Alzheimer’s SeniorScapes Handout
