Retirement living gives seniors an opportunity to focus on things that they have put off for years. Free from the responsibilities of raising children and punching a time clock, they can devote more time to hobbies, family, and travel. June is Great Outdoors Month, and if you are looking for ideas for things to do in the lovely summer weather, take these suggestions. While you do not have to try them all, stepping outside your own comfort zone and learning something new will help keep you strong, healthy, and mentally on your toes.

1. Golfing

Golf is a game enjoyed by men and women of all ages, but the senior years can provide you with enough time to really perfect your game. Here are a few reasons to try golf in your senior years:

• It’s a fun and easy way to get a workout.

Whether you have never hit a golf ball before or you have tried it a few times, golf will get you outside, give you some exercise as you walk from green to green, and increase your flexibility.

• Age is irrelevant.

One nice thing about golf as a sport is that with practice, you can be just as competitive as people of other ages.

• It offers common ground with family members.

Golf can also give you common ground with your children and grandchildren. When your family comes to visit you, do not waste time sitting in front of the television. Take them out for a game of golf.

• It's a great way to meet people.

Golf is a social sport. You can meet others as you play and enjoy their company. You may form lasting friendships with those that you meet on the golf course.

2. Hiking

Another outdoor activity that many seniors enjoy is hiking.  Hiking allows you to get moving in places that you cannot access by car. You can take a peek at nature's wonders, all while improving your health. In the United States, there are more than 17,000 miles of hiking trails. If you love to walk but you are tired of the same old sights in your neighborhood, buy a sturdy pair of hiking boots and research the hiking trails in your area.

Hiking can help improve your strength, balance, stamina, and cardiovascular health. It is usually a cheap or free activity, so you will not have to invest in hundreds of dollars of equipment. Additionally, studies have shown that those who spend time outdoors have lower levels of depression. If the blues hit you from time to time, fend them off with a long walk in the woods.

Another thing that is so great about hiking is that friends and family members can join you as you hike. Even the most un-athletic grandchild can go for a nature walk with Grandma. Even very small children like exploring nature, and when they get home, the exertion will make them ready for a good, long nap.

If you have never enjoyed traditional sports, hiking may be just the thing to get you outside and moving.

3. Lawn Games

Lawn games are not just for Fourth of July and Labor Day picnics. You can play these lawn games on a regular basis. In fact, there are even clubs and leagues that compete with others on local, state, and national levels.

• Horseshoes

• Corn Hole

Corn hole is a bean-bag toss game. The rules are simple to follow, and this game can be played with multiple age groups. Even your twelve-year-old grandson can be just as competitive at corn hole as his forty year old dad. If you need a game that is fun for many ages, corn hole is a sure winner.

• Croquet

Croquet is a game that is fun for people of all ages. While playing croquet, you could eventually end up walking a few miles, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of exercise without having to break a sweat.

Retirement living is not just about sitting on the sofa, working crossword puzzles and catching up on the soaps. Get up, get active, and get moving with these summer activity tips.