What says “spring” or “nice weather” more than the action of throwing open a window and breathing in the clean, fresh air? It sounds a little bit like a setup to a laundry detergent commercial, yes, but admit it – we’ve all quite literally breathed a sigh of relief once we’ve chased the last vestiges of winter from our homes. But did you know that “airing out” actually has benefits beyond the psychological?
“There is actual scientific proof that fresh air has physical health benefits,” says Devon Sicard, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke, a memory care assisted living community in Pembroke, MA. “These days, health professionals are even including fresh air and sunshine in wellness plans for everyone from kids to seniors.”
Best of all, getting fresh air doesn’t mean having to exercise. Even just sitting in the sun for a half hour provides all the benefits that fresh air provides. “For seniors who aren’t able to get around as much as they like, this is great news,” says Devon. “Even eating a meal outside on the patio is a great way to get some sun, air and healthy benefits.”
10 Benefits of Fresh Air for Seniors
1. Better bones.
Vitamin D helps boost your bone health and strength, which can reduce your risk of injury from falls and decrease your risk for fractures. Since falls are a frequent injury that send seniors to the emergency room, stronger bones are a must – and can be literal lifesavers. Since most of us don’t get enough Vitamin D in our daily lives, going outside to get a jolt of sunlight is one of the nicest things you can do for your body. Just 30 minutes in the fresh air, even on a cloudy day, fills your VItamin D tank up.
2. Opportunities for exercise.
Most of the time, the reason we go outside is to get some form of exercise. Whether that’s taking a walk, strolling with the dog, working the garden, biking or performing other tasks, being outside gets us moving. A daily dose of exercise can help improve your health in numerous ways (especially for seniors), so going outside to enjoy the fresh air lets you kill two health-related birds with one stone.
3. Better moods.
We all know the feeling of cabin fever. Being cooped up makes us anxious, jumpy – or on the other end of the spectrum, depressed, tired and drained. Being outside, on the other hand, boosts our energy levels and simply makes us feel good. (That’s because fresh air can actually boost the production of serotonin levels in our brains.) Being outside stimulates all five of our senses, which leaves us feeling more alert, focused and energized … which, in turn, makes us happier.
4. Quicker healing times.
The famous nurse Florence Nightingale discovered that soldiers who had access to sunlight and fresh air healed more quickly and with fewer complications than soldiers who were cooped up in stuffy hospital wards. As we mentioned before, fresh air has antibacterial properties that can kill the nasties and give your bodies as much opportunity as possible to heal. Plus, being outside causes you to breathe fresh, clean air – which also aids in the healing process. Really!
5. Higher energy levels.
That added boost of oxygen gets our hearts pumping and our blood cells working hard. The more fresh oxygen we get in our bodies, the fewer toxins remain – and the better our entire cardiovascular system works. And since you’re naturally feeling better because of the higher serotonin levels, better mood and stimulated senses, you naturally have more energy. It’s just that simple.
6. Lower stress.
Scientific studies have shown that being in nature allows us to relax and reduce our stress levels, thanks to the constant engagement of our senses. Stepping away from our phone and computer screens and focusing on the moment – feeling the wind in our hair and the sun in our face – reduces blood pressure and allows us to slow down and achieve inner calm.
7. Improved sleep.
Sunlight is the biggest trigger that affects our bodies’ circadian rhythms. Getting an adequate (and appropriate) dose of sunlight and dark signals to our brains when it’s time to be alert and when it’s time to sleep. A regulated circadian rhythm allows seniors to sleep more deeply at night.
8. Increased overall happiness.
Being in nature allows us to feel connected to the world around us, which makes us feel happier. A sunny disposition, apparently, is a real thing.
9. Less boredom.
Boredom is a real problem for seniors, who may not be able to do the things they enjoy due to a shrinking social circle, mobility problems or any other age-related issues. Being outside, though, helps get your brain moving and provides sensory stimulation that keeps you alert, focused and interested.
10. More opportunities for fun.
Being out and about gives you many ways to connect to the natural world, leading you to feel happier, healthier and more fulfilled. So lace on your walking shoes, slather on some sunscreen and get outside to reap all the benefits.
Expert, Life-Enriching Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community promotes a wellness-focused lifestyle that emphasizes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized, ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents.
Inspiring Programs for All Stages
Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke’s services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide personalized attention and programming for residents in every stage of memory loss.
Purposefully Designed Community
Within a beautiful residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Pembroke provides everything residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia need to enjoy comfort, familiarity and security. Soft colors, directional cues, aromatherapy and interactive life stations create a soothing and secure environment where residents feel at home.
Contact us today to learn more.