There are countless benefits to spending more time outdoors at any time of life. More time outdoors typically means more exercise, giving you a chance to boost circulation, improve muscle tone and build fitness. It can also be an enormous boost to your mental health and well-being and a chance to socialize. But as we get older it can be harder to get out. It’s normal to become isolated, to have trouble with mobility, and to feel anxious about going out alone. If you want to enjoy the benefits of getting outdoors more, here are some things that you can do.
Enjoy Your Garden
One of the best ways to get outdoors more at any age is to use what you’ve got. If you have a garden, you’ve got options. If you enjoy gardening, commit some time to adding some flowers, growing fruit and veg, and keeping things tidy. If you don’t enjoy gardening, you can still use your outdoor space to your advantage by reading outdoors, practicing hobbies like painting, or just enjoying your morning coffee on your deck. Remember, even small chunks of time outside can be beneficial.
Join Local Groups
Loneliness is very common in later life. It’s normal for friends and family to drift apart, and retirement can often leave us isolated. Feeling alone can be a big barrier to getting outside, especially if you also struggle with your mobility or have any anxiety.
Look in your local area for any regular group events. Walking clubs are great, but even things like local litter-picking clubs will get you out and help you to make friends and become more involved in your community.
Move to Assisted Living
There are many reasons why spending more time outdoors is more difficult in later life, and moving into an assisted living community, like this one in Lancaster, Ohio can help with all of them. You’ll have access to beautiful outdoor spaces, friends to explore them with, the healthcare support that you need to stay mobile, and a chance to join groups and clubs, such as walking and gardening groups that spend time outside.
Set Yourself Small Targets
The idea of going out for a 15-mile hike probably seems a world away, but any time outdoors can be helpful. So, set yourself small goals. Things like going for a walk around the block after dinner, sitting outdoors to eat when it’s hot, and walking to the local shops instead of getting the bus, can make a big difference to your health and well-being, and give you something to build from.
Make Plans with Friends
It’s always easier to get outdoors with friends, so make some plans. Even meet for walks, lunches outside, and picnics in the park.
Spending more time outdoors could improve your physical and mental health, boosting your mood, improving circulation, and reducing the risks of a wide range of health conditions. It could also help to increase your fitness levels, give you a new appreciation for life and even boost your memory. Start with a little time outside every day, and build up from there, making the great outdoors and nature a bigger part of your lifestyle.
