Bird Watching in Spring for Elders
Bird-watching can be an exciting activity for elders that enjoy the outdoors and even those that cannot venture outside. Now that Spring has arrived, birds are building nests and chirping outside windows just waiting to put on a show. Unlike many other hobbies, you can pick up bird-watching right away. It’s a skill that you develop as you go, becoming more adept at spotting creatures in their environment, deciphering body structure, wing cuts, songs, the difference in beaks, molting, migration patterns and other key elements. Developing these skills will keep your eyesight challenged and keep you paying attention at a high level, which many elders automatically start to let slide.
Elder Care Renton WA – Bird Watching in Spring for Elders
The following items will help you get started in this fun hobby.
Binoculars Choose a pair with a magnification to enhance, not strain, your eyesight, and with comfortable lenses that rest easily against the eyes or glasses. It’s important to note that most birdwatchers want a focus option of 10 feet or less. It might be helpful to stop by a local camera shop or sporting goods store first to examine a few pairs. Aficionados also use telescopes and digital cameras to capture their sightings.
Birding Books There are state or region-specific guides, country-based, good portable field books and bird-specific varieties. If you are exploring in fields and trails near home, contact your state’s department of natural resources to request birding materials and find out when they host free lectures on indigenous wildlife. Many beginners also rely on the Golden Field Guides’ Birds of North America, which has helpful maps, song recognition phonetics, gender and generational plumage guides, and, best of all, fits into a coat pocket.
For an elderly person who cannot go outside, here are some tips on how to get started with bird-watching. You’ll likely need to re-arrange the room. Your elder loved one will need to see out the window without craning her neck or twisting her back. Move her comfortable chair into the spot and try it out yourself to see what the view looks like. Wash the window inside and out. Great vision is important to enjoy the scenery.
Find out what type of birds are your loved one’s favorite. Research special feeders, seed, and plants that will attract that type of bird.
Create an uncluttered garden outside the window, preferably with special touches that your loved one will appreciate. Include favorite flowers or decorative pieces she will find charming or choose ones that will draw up good memories are great choices. Remember to not install more bird feeders than necessary, since this may prevent birds (who are naturally territorial) from visiting.
As you create the garden, place feeders, and install elements outside. Take the time to go back to the chair and ensure your elder loved one will be able to see the fruits of your labor.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services in Renton WA, contact the caring staff at Hospitality Home Care today. Call us at (206) 966-6552.
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