Four Simple Ways to Bring the Outside In

As we officially welcome the summer season in late June, we’ve already been enjoying warmer weather and longer days. Summer is traditionally a season that many look forward to, as it provides many opportunities to spend outdoors. Yet, summer can be a challenging season for seniors to enjoy the great outdoors. Summer means heat and humidity, which can be extremely dangerous for seniors if proper precautions aren’t taken.

According to the Mayo Clinic, people over the age of 65 are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature. The loss of ability to regulate body temperature leaves them vulnerable to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The best way to prevent this is for seniors to remain in cooler environments, such as their own home with the air conditioning running. Not only is staying indoors helpful to prevent seniors from experiencing heat stroke or heat exhaustion, but it’s also the safest place for them considering COVID-19. Yet, staying indoors doesn’t mean that seniors can’t enjoy the great outdoors. Here are four simple ways to bring the outside in.

Tend to Houseplants

Liven up your home and bring the outside in with houseplants. Indoor plants help reduce stress and anxiety, while improving your mood. They filter the air indoors and certain plants can even improve your quality of sleep. Caring for houseplants can also help brighten your day and give you a sense of purpose. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, start with one or two low maintenance plants, such as a spider plant or English ivy. If you’re not new to houseplants, expand your gardening skills by propagating current plants in your home or start a sweet potato vine from scratch.

Plant a Windowsill Herb Garden

Another way to bring the outside in is to plant a windowsill herb garden. Whether you start from seed or purchase already potted herbs, growing and maintaining an herb garden can be relaxing and fun. Plus, it’s an easy way to add fresh flavors to your meals, making them more appetizing. Think about the herbs and spices you use the most and start your windowsill garden with those plants. Keep them pruned for continual growth throughout the summer season.

Bring the Beach Indoors

Yet another fun way to bring the outside in is to turn to Kinetic sand. Fortunately, this sensational activity isn’t just for the kids. Purchase or make your own version of this fun material—you can find many recipes on how to mix your own batch online. Then, place it in a container and dive right in. Manipulating the sand is therapeutic for many seniors, often helping to relieve pain from arthritis or working to improve fine motor skills. It can also lead to a true sense of calm and bring back nostalgic memories of vacations at the beach.

Create a Nature Oasis

Finally, consider how you might create a nature oasis in your own backyard to attract birds to your yard. This idea requires a little outdoor time but will pay dividends all summer long as birds flock to your home. Strategically place a bird bath and/or bird feeder near windows you look out throughout your day. Enlist the help of your family as needed, especially as this is something they can do while practicing social distancing. Then, sit back and wait for the birds to take notice. The patience required to bird watch has a meditative effect for many seniors, leading them to feel calm and collected.

As we head into the summer season, what does your summer look like? Does your family plan to take a vacation, leaving you all alone while they’re away? Visiting Angels Jenkintown is here for you so that you have a seamless summer. We offer a variety of senior home care services that allow seniors to remain safe and independent in the comfort of their own home. Whether you need help with bathing or dressing or are looking for a companion to keep you company while your family is unavailable, you can depend on us. We would be honored to work with you to ensure you have a wonderful summer season. Please contact us today by calling 215-938-7201 so that we can learn more about your situation.