June is Senior’s Month, and we’re recognizing the importance of nature for our older adult population.
Getting outdoors is important for people of all ages and walks of life.
Getting outside is a great way to relax and soak up the beauty of nature that surrounds us.
Best of all, there are real benefits to enjoying the outdoors, especially for seniors.
Studies are continuously reporting the benefits gained by seniors who spend time in nature. These are some of the top reasons older adults should make time to get outside each day:
Opportunity for exercise
Access to everyday green and blue spaces encourages seniors to simply get out the door and encourages physical activity and engagement.
This can help improve cardiovascular and metabolic health, as well as lowering blood pressure and stress levels.
Provides socialization and diminishes the sense of isolation
Isolation can be an especially difficult problem for older adults, and safe social interactions outside can help alleviate some of this loneliness.
Nature and nearby green space can increase social connections on a neighborhood level.
Improves mental health
Seniors are at a higher risk of depression.
Spending time in a natural setting, especially waterfront, has been long known to improve mood and provide comfort to those who may be grieving.
Boosts energy and longevity
Being outside in nature can make a person feel more alive and provide a greater sense of energy and vitality.
Don’t know where to start?
There are countless ways for seniors to get active and spend time outside.
Here are a few easy ways to get started:
- going to a local park and taking a nature walk
- gardening, a great low-impact activity to maintain strength and flexibility
- connecting with nature through bird-watching (or even just placing a bird feeder outside a window)
- photography, an easy and creative activity that can be enjoyed in the moment as well as later
- reading outside, a fantastic activity for older adults! It’s a relaxing activity to keep the brain engaged
- spending time by a body of water. Proximity to running water can promote feelings of relaxation and well-being
Make time for nature
Even a short walk outside every day can provide substantial mental and physical benefits.
Choose whatever outdoor activities that you find the most enjoyable and that are right for your body!
