Fall is a great time of year. With the changing leaves and cooler days, it’s no wonder so many people love it. In fact, based on various reports and surveys, roughly half of all Americans say fall is their favorite season. With its official start on September 22, 2025, fall brings its own traditions and festivities. With these activities for older adults, everyone can enjoy the cooler weather and time outdoors.

Fall is also a great time to remember fall prevention techniques. As we get older, we aren’t just more likely to fall but falls become more dangerous. Every year, 1 in 4 older adults report a fall and 1 in 10 falls cause injury. In fact, it’s the leading cause of injury for those 65 and older, and more than 88% of ER visits and hospitalizations for hip fractures were the result of falls. But, with a little guidance, you can avoid falling while you enjoy these fall activities for older adults.

Fall Activities for Older Adults

You probably have a variety of traditions each season. Things you do each year to celebrate the season or a holiday and commemorate time with loved ones and friends. This year, think about trying something new with these fall activities for older adults. There’s even a fall prevention tip for each activity so you can confidently try something new while staying safe.

Go for a scenic drive

The leaves changing color is one of the best things about fall. Next to pumpkins, leaves might be the most iconic visual representation of all things fall. Looking at the leaves in all their splendor is a great activity for older adults to do this fall. One of the best ways to experience them is going on a scenic drive. This can be especially rewarding if you’re able to drive through the woods or mountains, or a state or national park.

Fall Prevention Tip #1

Of course, you can also see the changing leaves on a hike or nature walk. It’s one of the best ways to truly experience the beauty of fall. The exercise is certainly a nice added bonus. But it can also be a fall risk for older adults. Tree roots, rocks, and other objects are common tripping hazards on hiking trails. Even uneven pavement can cause any of us to stumble or fall. Be extra careful to watch your step and avoid these potential tripping hazards. Another tip to help prevent falls? Make sure you’re wearing good, sturdy shoes.

Bake a pie

If you’re ready to engage your other senses, this fall activity for older adults is for you. In general, baking is a wonderful pastime. It can be a relaxing stress reliever, a way to show a friend you’re thinking of them, or an opportunity to make memories with loved ones. Baking a pie can come with its own challenges, especially if you’re making crust from scratch, but the payoff is sweet.

There’s a pie for every season. A staple of fall is the smell (and taste!) of fresh apple and pumpkin pies. Not a baker? No problem! Heating a store-bought pie or visiting your favorite restaurant for a slice can be just as enjoyable. You can even light a fall scented candle if you want to enjoy the smell of fresh baked pie without the calories.

Fall Prevention Tip #2

Even when baking a pie, it’s important to remember fall prevention tips. As you’re making, or enjoying, your pie, look for any obstacles or objects that could cause you to trip. Think about things like cables or cords, furniture legs, rugs, and anything you may have dropped. If you do drop something, be careful picking it up to ensure you don’t lose your balance.

Have a fire

Cool fall nights are the ideal time to appreciate bonfires. There’s nothing better than gathering with friends and loved ones, toasting marshmallows, and savoring the sounds of the night. S’mores can be a delight at any age. Whether it’s an artificial fireplace or a classic firepit with logs, the warmth and glow of a fire is a memorable experience. Plan an evening, or two, to sit around a fire with your loved ones and friends. You can tell stories, share memories, have a good laugh, and enjoy a fall night filled with friendship and fun. Even mosquitoes can’t dampen the joy of a good fall fire with friends.

Fall Prevention Tip #3

Unfortunately, the fire itself isn’t the only danger to watch out for. Especially for older adults, the biggest concern is navigating the dark. The light of the fire might be relaxing, but it rarely offers a well-lit path. That doesn’t mean it can’t be enjoyed, though. Use extra caution as you walk to, from, and around the fire. Remember – in the dark, it can be much harder to spot trip hazards. If you’re concerned about how much light there may or may not be, take a flashlight with you. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, having a flashlight “just in case” may be a good idea so you don’t have to worry about a fall in the dark this fall.

Tips for Fall Prevention

Every year September marks Fall Prevention Month. It’s a good time to learn new fall prevention techniques and refresh your memory of ones you already know. With these tips, whether you’re trying these fall activities for older adults or not, you can reduce your risk of falling and hopefully protect yourself from fall-related injuries.

Fall Activities for Older Adults at The Ohio Masonic Communities

Fall is a fan favorite at The Ohio Masonic Communities. Our residents enjoy all of their favorite fall activities and more. Friday night bonfires, Saturday and Sunday tailgates, chili cook-offs, delicious pie, watching the leaves change, and more. There’s no reason not to love fall at any of our senior living communities.

Fall prevention is also incredibly important to us. At each of our communities, you’ll find things like good lighting, clear walkways, handrails and grab bars, and more. We also have dedicated environmental services teams who go above and beyond, not only keeping spaces clean and clear of clutter, but ensuring possible tripping hazards are removed. Plus, with committed, hardworking maintenance and grounds teams, you don’t have to worry about the fall risk of standing on a stool. If you need something you can’t reach or want something hung, all you have to do is ask and someone will be there to help.

At The Ohio Masonic Communities, we think fall is a perfect opportunity to try new things, like these activities for older adults. We have three senior living communities across the state of Ohio – Browning Masonic Community in Waterville, Ohio, Springfield Masonic Community in Springfield, Ohio, and Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, Ohio. If you are interested in learning more or seeing how senior living can make your fall even better, give us a call at 1 (877) 881-1623 or contact us here.