For the Latest in Hobbies for Seniors, Bird is the Word

About Brookdale Senior Living

Brookdale Senior Living offers multiple care levels for seniors in more than 600 communities nationwide. Brookdale helps you find the right care plan for yourself or your loved one. With amenities such as transportation services, salons and private dining rooms and activities such as gardening, fitness classes and trivia nights Brookdale caters to a wide range of interests and needs.

Fresh air, sweet songs and the company of some of nature’s most beautiful beings — there’s nothing quite like birdwatching. For seniors, it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits associated with having a hobby. And, while there’s much less commitment than the everyday care of a pet, birdwatching may still bring some of the same joys.

Thanks to today’s products and technologies, it’s easier, more exciting and more cost-effective than ever to embark on this interest. In fact, this following is quickly gaining attention of all ages and backgrounds. So, regardless of geographical location or mobility restraints, there is a level of birdwatching fit for any senior’s lifestyle. Now feast your eyes on all of the ways seniors can start enriching their lives with a little entertainment from Mother Earth (even without that expensive eye gear).

How to Bird 101

Learn from those who know how to “bird” best (yes, it’s a verb in this crowd). There are only a few basics you need to know, and a flock of online resources to help guide you.

Get excited about your birdwatching activities by following some non-profit organizations that will get you in the know. Whether on social media or regionally based birding clubs, associating with fellow “birders” is the best way to kick off this interest — and it costs zero dollars. These are a great place to start:
- American Birding Association
- National Audubon Society
- American Bird Conservancy
Check out live streams of birds in the wild. While some of these exotic scenes may not be available at your doorstep, it’s a great way to fall in love with this wonderful winged species.
Find the latest wallet-friendly products and resources to best suit your activity level, location, and lifestyle. Here are just a few to get you started:
- Scroll to the “Where to Bird” map here. Not only will this show you the types of birds to look for in your area, but it also provides beautiful locations to go see them.
- Get familiar with your nearby birds using this handy dandy guide that will help you identify them by eye and ear. For a few bucks, you can also download one of these smartphone apps for an on-the-go guide.
- Now that you know the birds in your neighborhood, bring them to you with food and feed recommendations from this free regional (and seasonal!) guide. Windowside is great way to enjoy birdwatching without leaving the comforts of home.
- Once you’ve conquered these basics, there are lots of ways to avoid the expense of binoculars. While you can find quality binoculars under $100, consider shopping around for a second-hand pair. And, if you have a camera, start taking pics! Many organizations have competitions that award high-quality birdwatching products in exchange for a well-timed photo.
Get others involved! Start a club, share bird-sighting stories or even just invite your friends to daily backyard excursions. Looking forward to planned events is key to keeping up a hobby. And, if you decide birds aren’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to get your nature fix by attracting butterflies and other flying beauties.