Spending time outdoors provides a wide variety of benefits for both the young and the old. Such benefits include boosting our immunity, improving physical health, and fighting stress. Unfortunately, due to limited mobility and declining health, not everyone is able to explore the outdoors. And, seniors are among the most affected groups.
Spending too much time indoors can make them feel stuck and bored. This is especially if they find it hard to gather the energy needed to do short excursions. If you have a senior with mobility issues under your care, there are a few things that you can do to encourage them to explore the outdoors. This includes:
3. Provide the Right Equipment
The lack of assistive technologies and equipment may be a big deterrent to a senior that would love to explore the outdoors. They may find the preparation and effort needed too much for them. This can make them frustrated and embarrassed.
Fortunately, this is something that can be solved by simply getting them the right equipment. A mobility assistant like an electric wheelchair or scooter can be a great place to start. It provides the support and stability they need and is easy to transport and use. In addition, it helps to make persons with mobility issues independent.
Research has shown that spending time by the water promotes feelings of well-being and relaxation. The trickling and slow sounds of moving water helps to relieve stress. As such, it would benefit your loved one greatly if you took them near a pond, lake, river, or stream.
This is, of course, if they are okay with it and don’t mind going there. It helps them to connect with different aspects of nature and experience new things. They also get to see new places and get out of their monotonous routine.
If you’re loved one isn’t able to move a lot, setting up a picnic can be a great way to get them out of the house. It brings a sense of togetherness with family and friends and provides the benefits of being in the outdoors. When planning for it, pick somewhere you know your loved one would want to be.
It doesn’t have to be far. It could be at a nearby park or by a water body. Remember to throw in a couple of healthy and tasty retreats to make the experience more memorable. This will motivate them to get out more and look forward to having more of such wonderful experiences.
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