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Advice by Alicia: The Healing Powers of Nature

Monday, June 27, 2022

Alicia Seaver is the Vice President of Memory Care Operations for EPOCH Senior Living and a Certified Memory Impairment Specialist. Every month, she addresses a specific issue related to memory and memory care. If you’re interested in hearing about a particular topic, please send a note to [email protected].

 

Q: My mom and I have spent a lot of time indoors since her memory loss worsened. As the weather gets nicer, I’d love to be able to get outside with her. Would that be good for her? If so, what kinds of activities would you suggest trying?

A: I love that you asked this question, as we often hear just how important it is for us to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature. The same is equally true for those with memory loss.

While many are worried about the risks of wandering, as I am sure you are, too, there are numerous health benefits to going outside when done so safely. Below, we’ll share some of the many benefits, and we’ll also share ideas on what kinds of activities your loved one might enjoy.

 

The Health Benefits of Nature

Getting outside, enjoying the sunshine, and simply feeling the breeze are enough to make anyone a little happier, but when you mix nature with memory loss, the benefits can be amazing. Check out some of these benefits of nature for dementia patients – as well as for you!

 

Lowered Stress Levels, Enhanced Relaxation, and Decreased Alzheimer’s Symptoms

Being outside can help provide a happier outlook on life. Studies show it can enhance mood and mental health, reduce stress, and lessen agitation, anger, apathy and depression.

This is especially useful for caregivers and people living with dementia, as not only can being outside decrease some of your loved one’s negative behavioral symptoms, but it can also enhance cooperation and overall joy.

Being outside doesn’t just decrease negative behaviors in those with memory loss – it may also bring out the positive. From improving brain function, memory and attention to enhancing verbal expression, the benefits can be great all the way around.

 

Improved Sleeping Patterns

Did you know that as you get older, your eyes have a harder time registering light, which can decrease the ability to maintain normal circadian rhythms? The good news is that spending a little time outside can help your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease sleep more soundly while decreasing nighttime wakefulness and activity.

 

Enhanced Self-Esteem and Increased Social Interaction

With the boost of happiness getting outside provides, it’s no wonder seniors enjoy a greater sense of well-being when they spend time outdoors. While that’s a great thing in and of itself, getting outside may also help increase their feelings of independence and self-esteem while improving social interaction and their sense of belonging.

In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, research shows that nature might “buffer the effects of loneliness or social isolation,” a common occurrence among older adults.

 

Boosted Health

While getting outside is very good for mental health, it’s also wonderful for physical health! Studies show it can help lower blood pressure, improve bone health, enhance the immune system, and even reduce the risk of certain cancers.

 

Safe Outdoor Activities for Those with Dementia

This summer, grab your hats, slather on the sunscreen, and gather your loved one with dementia for some outdoor adventure! Try these fun activities for a summer of fun. Activities can be adapted as needed to meet your loved one’s abilities and interests.

  • Start a garden
  • Play simple yard games
  • Have a picnic with family
  • Fly a kite
  • Go on a nature walk
  • Try birdwatching
  • Visit the local ice cream shop
  • Go for a small day trip, if possible
  • Cast a line and have fun fishing
  • Read a book and relax together on the patio
  • Enjoy lemonade and fresh fruit on the patio
  • Get artsy with sidewalk chalk
  • Do outdoor chair yoga

Not only can these activities bring up wonderful childhood memories for you and your loved one, but they’re also sure to be fun for you, too.

 

Bridges® by EPOCH: Providing Safe Outdoor Activities for Residents Living with Dementia

At Bridges® by EPOCH, we provide many activities for seniors with dementia to enjoy, including:

  • Spending time outside in our courtyard
  • Strolling through our walking paths
  • Contributing to our gardens
  • Enjoying fresh air with outdoor performances
  • Bringing nature elements into our programming
  • Taking day trips to local outdoor attractions

No matter their interests, there is always an opportunity for residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia to enjoy the outdoors.

We would love to give you a closer look. Visit the website of the community nearest you to join us for an upcoming event or personal tour.

 

Enhancing Quality of Life

Bridges® by EPOCH memory care communities have been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet and exceed the needs of our residents and their families. Our team of remarkable people, the exceptional care and services we offer, and the purposeful design of our buildings all combine to create the most rewarding, secure and nurturing lifestyle possible for our residents.

Bridges® communities are located in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, in the following towns: Norwalk, CT; Stamford, CT; Trumbull, CT; Andover, MA; Hingham, MA; Lexington, MA; Mashpee, MA; Pembroke, MA; Sudbury, MA; Westford, MA; Westwood, MA; and Nashua, NH.

Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.

 

Learn More About Bridges®

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