Seniors who retain mobility in their late years should take advantage of this and spend more time outside in the fresh air. This is good for their health and overall well-being.
4 Reasons Why Older Adults Should Spend More Time Outside
Vitamin D
If seniors don’t get enough exposure to this vitamin, they increase their chances of degenerative bone disorders such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Exposure to the natural sun helps the body synthesize vitamin D. Being under sun rays is much better than taking vitamin D supplements. For the elderly, only a few minutes a day should be enough to get their dose of this vitamin.
Being in Natural Surroundings
Spending time in nature can boost seniors’ mood, and fill them with peace and joy. This way, they are sure to stay away from conditions such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive deficit. Being around trees, flowers, grass, birds, and animals can increase the production of endorphins, which are responsible for us feeling good. Enough endorphins in the body can help even relieve elderly adults of some pain.
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Cardiovascular Benefits
Being in nature, surrounded by fresh air, logically has a positive effect on cardiovascular health. The air inside of a house or retirement home can be partially polluted, which can reduce lungs capability. With a lower work rate of the lungs, the heart will also encounter difficulties pumping the blood through seniors’ body. Being outside improves the general health of the elderly by allowing them to breathe easier and lower their heart rate.
Relieves the Pain in Knees
Walking, or doing some kind of light workout, will restore mobility to seniors who have issues with their knees. This is especially recommended for elderly adults with arthritis. They can also reduce hip stiffness, eliminate knee and hip pain, and reduce kneecap swelling.
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