Spending time outdoors can be very beneficial and an important part of senior care, allowing seniors to soak in the sunshine, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the natural scenery. Simply taking a stroll outside offers a number of benefits. Here’s a closer look at why it’s important to engage in outdoor activity. 

Why Going Outside Is a Must for Seniors

1. Increase Vitamin D

Vitamin D is naturally found in sunlight and lowers the risk of osteoporosis, which causes the bones to become brittle. This is common among the older generation and increases the potential for injury. Spending time outdoors will make it easier for the body to absorb calcium. This, in turn, helps to strengthen the bones and will help keep them from breaking.

2. Boost Mental Health

Staying inside for long periods of time could contribute to depression for some people.  Making it a point to step outdoors at least once a day can help improve a person's mood. 

Fresh breeze heightens the senses and provides a boost of serotonin, which directly affects the parts of the brain that contain emotions and memories. Maintaining mental health is a vital aspect of senior care and can have a wide range of benefits.

3. Maintain Physical Health

Going for a walk every day is the simplest way to maintain mobility. Not only does it give the joints a chance to move, but it also triggers synovial fluid production to provide added lubrication between cartilage and joints. Outdoor activities also serve to build muscle mass, allowing seniors to become stronger and reducing the risk of a fall. 

4. Strengthen Relationships

Having a friend or family member join in on outings can build and strengthen bonds. This provides time for conversation and interaction with one another. Regular engagement with others, whether it be indoors or outdoors, lowers the potential for feelings of isolation and gives an added sense of purpose. 

Abbington Assisted Living is proud to provide senior care throughout Columbus, Pickerington, Powell, Chillicothe, and Coshocton, OH. Abbington senior living communities are one-story buildings that are designed with comfort and security in mind, offering comprehensive nursing care services in a compassionate, comfortable, and cost-effective manner. Please visit our website or call us directly at (614) 451-4575 in Columbus, (614) 577-0822 in Pickerington, (614) 789-9868 in Powell, (740) 773-4630 in Chillicothe, or (740) 623-4600 in Coshocton.