15 Fun Things to do in Adelaide with Your Elderly Loved Ones

If you’ve been looking for fun and accessible activities to do with your loved ones, look no further. 

Planning a day out with family and friends is something we all look forward to. When travelling with seniors, there are a few extra things to consider to ensure it is safe and relaxing for all involved.

Read on to find out how to plan a rewarding, safe, and enjoyable day trip with your elderly loved ones in Adelaide.

The benefits of day trips and community outings for older people

Getting out and about to explore your city is great for your physical well-being, social life, and mental health. This is especially important for older Australians, who may experience health and mobility challenges that make it more difficult to participate in their local community.

Interacting with others in our local area is great for keeping your older loved ones engaged mentally and socially. Staying active can also boost well-being and energy levels and help avoid or slow the rate of some of the effects of ageing. Recreational activities have several benefits for your older loved ones, including

• Improving emotional connections and wellbeing.
• Providing social support and an opportunity to express themselves.
• Improving cognitive alertness and engagement.
• Providing a change of scenery, fresh air, and engaging activities.
• Improving healthy relationships between you and your loved one.
• Offers opportunities for gentle physical activity to protect mobility.
• Prevents isolation, loneliness and poor mental health in older age.
• Promotes independence and autonomy to help maintain active, healthy ageing.

Loneliness and isolation can increase health risks for older people. Finding ways to keep your older loved one’s socially and physically active can help them to feel better as they age. Knowing some safe, fun, and accessible activities you and your loved one can enjoy together can make this much easier and less stressful. 

Understanding the needs of older people living in Adelaide

According to 2014 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 287,700 people aged 65 years or over live in South Australia, accounting for about 17% of the state’s population. Of these people, 42,100 were aged 85 years or older (making up 2.5% of South Australia’s total population).

As in many other parts of Australia and the world, the population of Adelaide and greater South Australia is ageing. More older people were living throughout the state in 2014 than in 2009. This trend will likely continue as declining birth rates and medical advancements continue seeing more people live for longer.

Is Adelaide a senior-friendly city?

The South Australian government is committed to creating an inclusive, accessible, safe and rewarding environment for older people to thrive. South Australia has the greatest proportion of adults aged 50 and over in mainland Australia, making up 37% of their population. These 630,500 South Australians are valuable, important members of the South Australian community and should enjoy equal access to all the city has to offer. 

The majority of older Australians live independently at home, with or without support. Only a small number of older Australians reside in residential aged care. Without the comprehensive health and social programs many aged care facilities offer, it is even more important to ensure your elderly loved ones stay engaged and avoid isolation. Participating in one’s local community and staying socially active is important to ensure your loved one ages in place successfully and independently.

South Australia’s Plan for Ageing Well 2020-2025 outlines the State Government’s vision and priorities for ageing well for all South Australians. It builds on the work of the previous State Ageing Plan ‘Prosperity through Longevity’ that concluded in 2019.

This plan aims to ensure all South Australians can enjoy meaningful, healthy, independent lives as they age. It outlines several strategies, goals, and projects that the government will deliver to achieve its vision that “South Australia is a healthy, connected, equitable and sustainable community, which takes a whole of life approach that fosters many years of living well, and supports us to die with dignity, in line with our wishes.”

To achieve this vision, the Plan has been organised into three strategic priorities based on available research and consultation with the local community.

1. Home and community

Homes and communities enable flexibility and choice, and support us to live how we choose, no matter our age, needs, wants and desires.

2. Meaningful connections

A future where everyone has the opportunity, support, and encouragement to maintain and develop meaningful connections.

3. Navigating change

A future where we all have the capabilities and supports for remaining active participants throughout all life’s transitions.

To learn more about how the South Australian government is working to create more age-friendly cities and suburbs, you might like to connect with South Australia’s Office for Ageing Well. You can give your thoughts, ideas, and feedback via their Feedback Network, which allows older people to contribute to the development and planning of projects, and in informing the research, and design of products, services, and policies.

To join the network and have your say, email [email protected]. 

Things to consider when planning outings for older people

No matter where you and your loved ones decide to go for your next outing, travelling with elderly loved ones can require a little extra thought and planning. 

Older people may run out of energy sooner than younger adults, meaning you must schedule more frequent rest breaks. Older adults are also more susceptible to temperature and extreme weather changes, so it is important to consider the forecast in your plans (and have a backup plan for when the forecast is wrong!).

You also need to consider any risks in the physical environment of your planned outing. Slips, trips, and falls can be very serious for older people and lead to significant health challenges. Packing a bag of all the essentials is a great idea and should include maps, mobile phones and chargers, any medications your loved one needs, and plenty of water and snacks to boost your energy throughout the day.  

Some further tips are listed below to help you plan a fun day out that is safe and accessible for beloved older people in your life.

1. Research your destination thoroughly 

Always double-check addresses, travel routes, and parking options for your destination. Calling ahead to check access requirements is great for avoiding disappointment on the day. Read reviews and list all the senior-friendly activities you can do in the area. Look for good places to take breaks and check out the National Toilet Map to find accessible restrooms so you don’t find yourself stuck needing a bathroom during the day. If your loved one has a health condition, it may also be worth finding a few local hospitals or medical centres nearby in case of unforeseen health issues.

2. Pack all of the essentials

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Make sure your outing is as enjoyable as possible by packing a day bag with everything you and your loved one may need. Some items you may want to include are:

• Medications
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, long sleeves, hat)
• Snacks and water
• First aid kit
• Change of clothes
• Fan or personal cooler
• Mobile phone and charger
• Printed contact information in case you get separated
• Identification for you and your loved one
• Any medical information or devices your loved one needs, including a change of batteries.

3. Ask for help if you need it

Getting out and about with an older loved one can be challenging. Mobility issues and navigating unfamiliar environments can be exhausting, and you may not be able to do it all alone. Don’t let this keep you from making precious memories with your loved one. Getting the support of a professional caregiver or companion can take a lot of pressure off you so that you can focus on being in the moment. It can also help keep you and your loved one safer by having another set of hands to assist with getting around. At Homage, our team of highly professional, dedicated, and empathetic Care Pros is available to support you, and your older loved one in participating in their local community meaningfully and safely.

Regardless of physical, or intellectual disabilities or degenerative diseases, our Care Pros can help find the best solution for your care needs. Learn more about disability support services or contact our team for more information.

15 things to do in Adelaide with your elderly loved ones

Outdoor activities in Adelaide you can do with your elderly loved ones 

1. Do the wood duck walk in Belair National Park.

This gentle, one-kilometre walk is perfect for young children, adults, and older people, including those using mobility aids. The trail starts at the car park and picnic area at Playford Lake and is accessible for wheelchair users. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and say hello to the local ducks that live on the lake.

2. Walk the punchbowl lookout trail in Onkaparinga River National Park

Pack some snacks or a picnic and head out on this lovely, scenic one-kilometre (two kilometres return) in the Onkaparinga River National Park. This walk begins from the car park on Piggot Range Road (between gates 8 and 9). Toilets are available near gate 11. The trail offers views into the Onkaparinga Gorge from a lookout above The Punchbowl. 

The trail is a consistent one metre wide and made of compacted gravel, and with gently contoured gradients, so as such is suitable for people of all abilities, including those with mobility access issues, wheelchairs, and prams. There is some seating mid-way along the trail so you can take a rest when needed.

3. Visit the Adelaide Zoo

Adelaide Zoo has been a favourite attraction to people of all ages for generations. Home to more than 2,500 animals and 250 species of exotic and native mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish, the zoo is a fun day for people of all ages.

The zoo has accessible toilets on site, accessible drinking fountains, and provides ramps and railings for disability access. There are several disabled car parks close to the main entrance. The Wisteria Restaurant, Fig Tree Café, and the Zoo Shop are all wheelchair accessible.

4. Go shopping at the Adelaide Central Market

Offering over 70 unique market stall holders, the Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. The car park, toilets, and market are all accessible by wheelchair. You and your loved one will have a great day browsing the stalls, tasting some delectable samples, and buying some great produce to enjoy at home.

5. Go for a drive in the Scenic Hills and Countryside

With so much beautiful scenery in South Australia, you don’t even need to leave your car to have a great day out. Stock up on snacks and water and head out for a beautiful drive among the hills and countryside of South Australia. If you need more inspiration, here is a useful list of some of the best scenic drives in and around Adelaide.

6. Visit the Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in the beautiful sights, sounds, and smells of the South Australian Botanic Gardens. Accessible for wheelchair users, this garden boasts an impressive array of plants to discover. Spend an hour or spend the day among the 50 hectares of magnificently maintained gardens and stunning architecture. Relax in the shade or enjoy a coffee among some of Australia’s finest plant collections.

7. Pick up fresh produce at the Barossa Farmers Market

Adelaide is famous for its amazing produce. Browse all your local area has to offer by visiting the iconic Barossa Farmers Market. With a strong focus on sustainability and a wide range of rotating stallholders, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

8. Get lost (and found) at the Mintaro Maze

Rediscover your inner child and lose yourself in a unique experience of a living hedge Mintaro Maze, consisting of over 800 conifers, featuring fountains, twists, and turns to delight you and your loved one. The maze is accessible to wheelchair users and will be a day out the whole family will love.

9. Go on a tour to Cleland Wildlife Park

Discover more than 130 species of local wildlife, just 30 minutes outside of Adelaide’s Central Business District. Book a tour of Cleland Wildlife Park and learn all about the park with a personal tour guide to show you around. View the koalas snoozing in their lofts, feed some local kangaroos, or just sit back and enjoy the scenery. Bookings are essential.

10. Enjoy a wine tasting at McLaren Vale Winery

Leave the car at home and enjoy Adelaide’s only hop-on hop-off McLaren Vale winery tour service. Departing from Adelaide CBD takes you out to stunning McLaren Vale, to follow a looping circuit featuring the best wineries and venues in the area. Get on and off as you please, and enjoy the amazing wine the region has to offer. Bookings essential.

Indoor activities in Adelaide you can do with your elderly loved ones 

11. See the stars at the Adelaide Planetarium

Based at UniSA’s Mawson Lakes campus, just 16km from Adelaide CBD, the Planetarium offers a unique interactive experience to explore the universe, galaxy, and solar system.

The Adelaide Planetarium will take you on an immersive journey through space, with stars and constellations coming alive during our stunning night sky presentations and movies.

12. See an exhibition at the South Australia Museum

There is always something new and exciting to see at the South Australia Museum. With two lifts and wheelchair access throughout, the museum is the perfect day out for people of all ages and mobility levels. 

13. Enjoy the artwork at the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA)

With a broad range of rotation exhibitions, AGSA is proud to offer accessible guides to many of their favourite attractions. Plan your day out and enjoy soaking up some local and international art and culture.

14. See a show or go to a festival

From dance and music to comedy shows and opera, there is something for everyone at the Adelaide Festival Centre. Find a show or festival that your loved one will enjoy, and read about their accessibility features to make sure the day goes smoothly.

15. Take a tour of Parliament House. 

Have you always wondered how Parliament works in Adelaide? When Parliament is not sitting, guided public tours are available free of charge at 10 am and 2 pm on weekdays. You will be guided through the various rooms and features of this historic building and learn key insights into the history of the Adelaide Parliament.