Warm summer days are here, making it the perfect time for seniors to get outside! The benefits of spending time outdoors go far beyond simply enjoying the fresh air. In fact, numerous studies have shown that engaging in outdoor activities can significantly enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Being outdoors is a fun and easy way to keep moving. Regular outdoor activity, such as walking or gardening, strengthens the cardiovascular system and lowers the risk of heart disease. Also, many outdoor activities can help enhance overall mobility, including balance, coordination, and flexibility. Maintaining mobility and balance are extremely important for seniors to reduce the risk of falls.
Spending time in nature also boosts our mood and mental well-being. Exposure to sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, which improves our mood. Green spaces can have a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress levels. Interacting with nature through activities like gardening also offers sensory stimulation, which can benefit cognition and aid in relaxation.
While there are many health benefits associated with spending time outdoors, seniors should keep the following summer safety tips in mind:
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after outdoor activities to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related illnesses.
- Sun Protection: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun. Don't forget to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to exposed areas of the skin.
- Time Your Outdoor Activities: Plan outdoor excursions during the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid extreme heat and sun exposure.
- Choose the Right Footwear: Opt for comfortable, supportive shoes that provide stability and protect your feet during walks or hikes.
- Be Aware of Your Physical Limits: Engage in activities that suit your fitness level and take breaks when needed. Listen to your body, and don't push yourself beyond your capabilities.
The opportunities for outdoor time are endless – explore a local park or botanical garden, grow your own vegetables, dine al fresco at a new picnic spot, practice yoga in a serene outdoor setting, or strap on your binoculars for bird watching. At Brightview Senior Living, we know that being outdoors offers ample benefits for our residents, and all our communities offer welcoming, accessible, and comfortable outdoor spaces. Our Wellspring Village™ memory care neighborhoods also provide accessible, safe, and secure courtyards for residents living with dementia.
We are eagerly planning our outdoor summer events, trips, and activities, and we would love for you to join us. Find a community near you.
Brightview Senior Living builds, owns, and operates award-winning vibrant senior living communities in eight states along the East Coast: Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Virginia. We offer senior Independent Living, Assisted Living, Enhanced Care, and Wellspring Village™, a specialized neighborhood for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Schedule a personal visit to experience our communities firsthand.
