Green plants are known to promote both physical and mental health, improve focus and even clean the air, making them an excellent addition to any senior’s living space. There are even more benefits to getting outdoors and spending time in nature – and in Florida, we have many opportunities to do just that. While seniors may not be in the habit of going outside each day, there is research that suggests they absolutely should. This article will discuss the benefits of being in nature and ways to spend time outside.

Benefits of Exposure to Nature and the Outdoors

There are many benefits to being outdoors for seniors, including:

Being outside in fresh air boosts the immune system and elevates mental and emotional health.
Just fifteen minutes per day out in the sunshine will increase Vitamin D levels, support robust immune systems and support positive mental health.
Getting outside to take a walk can energize someone who is feeling fatigued and provide a burst of energy.
Research has proven that being outside in natural light helps the body to heal faster from injury and illness.
When seniors spend time outside, the thoughts of daily tasks and responsibilities fade into the background. This gives the brain the opportunity to rest and do something different – improving focus, increasing cognitive function, and even improving memory.

Helping Your Senior Loved One Get Outdoors

Sometimes it can be difficult to convince a senior to go outside. They get comfortable in their indoor space and may feel that they are too frail, too tired, or even just too disinterested to get out in the sunshine. Here are some creative ways to convince your loved one to venture outside their doors.

Hang a Bird Feeder: If your loved one has a patio or small sitting area, hanging a birdfeeder is a wonderful way to bring nature up close. Bird watching is an easy pastime for anyone, and seeing the bird varieties may draw your loved one outdoors for a closer look. Placing a comfortable chair close to the bird feeder allows the senior to sit quietly and enjoy these beautiful creatures.
Create an Oasis: It will be difficult for any senior to resist a colorful floral garden just outside their door. Potted plants are easier to cultivate, and you may even wish to encourage them to begin container gardening. Creating a seating area surrounded by gorgeous blloms is sure to tempt any senior to walk outside.
Walk Along the Water: Any body of water, be it a lake or koi pond, has been proven to inspire a sense of calm and serenity. Take your senior for a walk along the water, or push them in a wheelchair if they can’t walk on their own. If your senior can take an excursion, take them to a park with water features, or find a nearby river to sit and enjoy.
Take a Walk: Walking is one of the best activities for people of any age but is especially beneficial for seniors. Walking is low impact and easy but has significant benefits. The best thing about walking is that it can be done anywhere. If your loved one lives in assisted living, they likely have beautifully landscaped grounds to enjoy and walk through.
Offer a Picnic: Taking your loved one for an outdoor picnic is a wonderful way to spend time outside in the sun. Ask them their favorite place to sit and enjoy nature, and pack their favorite food.

There are many ways for people of any age and mobility level to enjoy nature. At A Banyan Residence, we maintain a lovely campus to inspire and encourage outdoor activities. Come for a tour of our facility in The Villages today.