A Gentle Fall Activity for Seniors in Ottawa
As the trees in Ottawa burst into shades of gold, amber, and red, fall becomes the perfect time for seniors to enjoy the outdoors in a safe, relaxing, and meaningful way. At Ideal Caregivers 4U, we know that nature has a special way of lifting spirits, sparking memories, and promoting well-being — which is why this week’s featured activity is the Autumn Nature Walk & Leaf Collecting Journal.
This simple yet powerful activity blends gentle exercise, creativity, and reflection — all while celebrating the beauty of Canada’s most colourful season.
What You’ll Need
- A light jacket or scarf for warmth
- A small notebook or scrapbook
- Glue stick or double-sided tape
- Coloured pencils or markers
- A basket or bag for collecting leaves and natural items (acorns, pinecones, etc.)
Step 1: Take a Gentle Autumn Walk
Choose a safe and scenic walking path such as:
- The Dominion Arboretum — a breathtaking collection of maple and oak trees
- The Rideau Canal pathways — perfect for calm, wheelchair-accessible strolls
- Andrew Haydon Park — offering stunning water views and easy walking routes
Encourage seniors to take their time, enjoy the crisp air, and observe the beauty around them — the crunch of leaves, the scent of pine, and the golden light filtering through the trees.
Tip: For seniors with limited mobility, a seated outdoor visit or drive through Ottawa’s tree-lined streets can be just as enjoyable.
Step 2: Collect Nature’s Treasures
As you walk, gently collect a few leaves, pinecones, or acorns that catch your eye.
Each item tells a small story — perhaps a reminder of childhood walks, family Thanksgiving outings, or simply a moment of calm in the present.
Step 3: Create the Leaf Journal
Once back indoors, gather the collected items and begin your Leaf Collecting Journal.
- Glue or tape leaves onto pages.
- Label them by colour, texture, or location found.
- Add personal notes, reflections, or drawings inspired by the day.
For example:
“Found this red maple leaf at Dow’s Lake. It reminded me of walking my kids to school in the fall.”
This step encourages both creativity and memory recall — two important elements of emotional and cognitive wellness.
Why This Activity Matters
For Seniors:
- Encourages light physical activity and connection with nature.
- Stimulates the senses — smell, sight, and touch — which supports brain health.
- Promotes mindfulness and calm, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Improves memory recall by linking present experiences with past memories.
A Moment to Reflect
The beauty of this activity lies not only in the walk itself but in the moments of reflection that follow.
Each leaf becomes a keepsake — a reminder of nature’s rhythm, resilience, and renewal.
At Ideal Caregivers 4U, based in Ottawa, we believe every season brings opportunities to nurture joy, independence, and connection for seniors — and fall is one of the most inspiring times to do so.
Keep the Spirit of Fall Alive
If you or someone you love could benefit from meaningful, companion-based care that encourages creativity and connection, we’re here to help.
