A Senior's Need for Outdoor Exposure

As we age, our interest in exploring the outdoors decreases. Social stress, anxiety, health issues, and physical limitations all contribute to this. The benefits of being outside include increasing Vitamin D levels, boosting serotonin, and increasing white blood cell count. This is why seniors should, whenever possible, spend some time outside. You can reap many health benefits from being in nature, no matter how long you spend there. Here's why being outside can improve senior's day-to-day lives, and why it's important to them.

Increase in Vitamin D

Being outside can increase Vitamin D levels in the body, which seniors typically lack. Calcium and phosphorus, two elements essential to building healthy bones, are absorbed and retained by the body when Vitamin D is present. Bones become weak with age, so it is important to strengthen them as much as possible. Vitamin D is also known to reduce cancer cell growth, reduce inflammation, and help control infections. Additionally, Vitamin D regulates cellular functions in the body and increases the number of white blood cells. White blood cells fight infection, which in the long run can help fight illnesses and infections.

Boost Serotonin Levels

When you walk outside, do you ever feel an overwhelming sense of happiness? Getting outside in the fresh air can raise oxygen levels in the brain, which in turn increases serotonin levels. Walking and jogging produce endorphins, which, like serotonin, are mood-boosting neurotransmitters. A few extra steps outside and breathing in fresh air can improve the mood of seniors when they feel sad or lonely.

Builds Connections

You never know who you might meet or see while walking to the grocery store or around your neighborhood. Getting outside and going for a brisk walk may be the answer for a senior who is lonely and needs friends. You never know, they might meet a new friend if they decide to venture out.

Change of Scenery

It never hurts to experience a change of scenery even if seniors insist that they love their comfy chair and old television. Whether exploring new parts of the neighborhood or going on a day trip to the zoo, exposure to new places and people stimulates the brain. Encourage the seniors in your life to step outside of their comfort zones and try something new.

Boosts Mental Health

Researchers have found that being in nature increases endorphins and dopamine levels, which increases happiness. Being in green spaces has also been shown to reduce cortisol, which is a stress hormone. A reduction in cortisol allows the body to be at peace and feel calm.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty

We miss so many beautiful parts of nature every day. A strangely shaped flower, a new species of bird, or an interesting tree. We often forget to appreciate the eccentric aspects of nature surrounding us. The outdoors can remind seniors of these natural beauties and encourage them to go outside more often.

Even though it can be difficult to motivate seniors to get outside, the outcome is well worth it. As a result, your loved ones will be happier, more inspired, and stronger. They can also experience a variety of breathtaking scenery by going outside. Experiencing the outdoors together with your loved one can also strengthen your bond. Our mission at Visiting Angels Hurst, TX is to help seniors feel their best and encourage them to try new things. We aim to help seniors live at home as long as possible, and we will never waver from that goal.