Fresh air, natural surroundings, and engaging activities can be a gateway to better health for older adults in assisted living. Being outside is linked to numerous health benefits. Meanwhile, active and engaged seniors can have a reduced risk of developing some diseases, may live longer, and can experience better mental health.
Being outdoorsy is traditionally associated with young people, but anyone of any age can enjoy the outdoors. Accessible activities for seniors in assisted living include walking, birdwatching, attending special events, and even bringing your favorite indoor activities outside.
Health Benefits of Staying Active
From exploring a park to meeting up with friends for a picnic, being outside naturally encourages people to be more physically and socially active.
Physically active older adults may enjoy numerous potential health benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of developing diseases like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, dementia, and heart disease
- Slower progression of chronic diseases and therefore, a prolonged lifespan
- Fewer depression and anxiety symptoms
- Better quality sleep
- Preservation or even improvement in some cognitive abilities
Staying socially engaged or continuing with hobbies you enjoy also brings health benefits. These include:
- Lower chance of developing diseases like heart disease, stroke, dementia, and even some cancers
- Happier mood, fewer depression symptoms, and more resilience to challenges
- Potential improvement in cognitive ability
Health Benefits of Being Outdoors
Many studies have found a link between better health and exposure to nature. Potential health benefits of spending time in nature include:
- An environment conducive to exercise: Going outside puts you in a position to be more active, both physically and socially. For example, asking a friend to check out a new park together can mean walking around and having a meaningful conversation.
- Better quality sleep: Being outside means you’re more exposed to sunlight, which affects your circadian rhythm (your body’s internal clock). Sunlight exposure can help people feel sleepy at night, fall asleep faster, and have better quality sleep.
- Better mood: Some people believe exposure to sunlight can help lessen depression symptoms, and light therapy has been used to treat major and seasonal depression. If you’re feeling blue, try going outside. A simple change of scenery may be refreshing.
A Note on Safety
While outdoor activities are fun and beneficial, don’t forget to stay safe. Talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice on how to reduce risks, as individual health conditions may require special considerations.
In general, remember to wear sunscreen, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring water to stay hydrated. Notify others where you’ll be going and make sure you bring your ID, phone, emergency contact, medications if required, and any medical alerts (such as bracelets).
Outdoor Activity Ideas for Seniors
Here are some creative and accessible activities seniors and caregivers can try to reap the benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and a more engaged lifestyle.
Walking
A simple yet effective exercise, walking can improve strength and flexibility, help prevent diseases, and promote balance, thus reducing the risk of falls. Walking is also a great way to socialize: sights and sounds can stimulate conversation, and if you go at a leisurely pace, you can keep a conversation going.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be an interesting hobby for older adults to take up. It encourages you to go outdoors and learn new facts about nature around you. It can also help bring people together as they share a mutual goal of spotting and naming birds.
If you’re not interested in birds, consider another aspect of nature to explore, such as plants, star constellations, or geology.
Photography
With the rise of smartphone cameras and user-friendly apps, photography is more accessible and fulfilling than ever. Photography also encourages creativity and creates a sense of accomplishment when you capture the perfect shot. Another upside is that it offers an excellent way to share memories with family and loved ones.
Special Events
Outdoor events like markets and outdoor concerts can be stimulating environments that promote exercise and social engagement. Consider looking for events with accessibility features like wheelchair rentals, ramps, quiet zones, and masking rules.
Indoor Activities Outside
There’s no rule that meals, reading, or puzzles have to be done indoors! An outdoor picnic or an afternoon spent playing cards under a shady tree can make old activities feel refreshing and more fun. Many assisted living communities, such as Peregrine Senior Living at Salisbury, offer beautiful outdoor areas that are easily accessible to senior residents.
Assisted Living with Peregrine Senior Living at Salisbury
We believe older adults are vibrant individuals who shouldn’t be defined by their health conditions and limitations. This belief led us to build a robust program of activities for the residents of Peregrine Senior Living at Salisbury. Assisted living residents can enjoy opportunities like:
- Around the World Dining: Every month, explore culinary treasures from different parts of the world along with cultural movies, lectures, and music.
- Peregrine University: Thanks to our education partners, we’re able to offer informative lectures on a variety of topics for residents and their families.
- Themed activities: We often celebrate special events that honor our residents’ stories and cultural backgrounds.
If you’re looking for a cozy yet vibrant assisted living community, we encourage you to meet us in person! Contact us to book a tour today.
