It’s official. Spring is springing. And we know we’re all happy that the days are getting longer and exiting our homes for errands and appointments become less of a burden. The green grass and various colours of spring don't hurt either! But, there's more to spending time outdoors than just admiring the scenery. It’s essential to our overall well-being. Especially for older adults. In a time where we spend more and more time inside., it’s important to remind ourselves that the outdoors isn’t just another location option for us to spend our time. When we immerse ourselves in nature, whether it's in parks or other green areas, we feel connected and renewed, like we're a part of something greater than ourselves.

Is it important for older adults to do outdoor activities?

Time outdoors plays a crucial role in enhancing the physical well-being of older individuals. Research consistently underscores the positive impact of exposure to natural environments, such as parks and green spaces, on seniors' health. Outdoor activities promote physical activity and exercise, contributing to improved cardiovascular and metabolic health. It aids in lowering blood pressure, reducing stress levels, and fostering overall cardiovascular fitness. 

It also helps us get more Vitamin D - Something that Manitobans are deprived of for a large portion of the year. Spending time outdoors allows seniors to absorb natural sunlight, a key source of Vitamin D. This vital nutrient plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health, supporting calcium absorption, and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Are people happier when they spend time outside?

Engaging in outdoor activities can reduce our levels of depression and anxiety. Of course, when we take care of our physical health, it also benefits our mental health, but there is even more to it than that. Numerous studies and data support the idea that individuals experience heightened happiness when they spend time outdoors. Even if they aren’t doing vigorous exercise. Exposure to nature contributes to a decrease in our body's stress hormones and an increase in feel-good neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, et). Nature also has therapeutic effects. Studies have found a strong link between time spent in green spaces to lower perceived stress and increased feelings of calmness.

How long should you be outside a day?

As we age, we may develop an inclination to stay indoors. For some, it may be very easy to get themselves outdoors. Naturally, some people are more “outdoorsy,” while others may identify more as “homebodies.” Regardless, spending time outdoors is important for everybody. Especially, older adults. So how long should we aim to be outdoors? Of course, it depends on the individual and their abilities and needs. As a general rule, you should aim for at least 20 minutes outdoors a day or at least a minimum of an hour and a half a week. 

What are good activities for older people?

Manitoba's picturesque landscapes offer a stunning backdrop for a variety of activities. However, as we get older, limited mobility and access to transportation combined with a need for more periods of rest, exploring all of the activities that Manitoba has to offer, becomes difficult.

However, intentionally incorporating outdoor activities into daily routines is still important. Here are some great outdoor activities that you can do that aren’t hard on our bodies, or require us to do too much travelling.

Walk Around The Block Or Take In Some Nature.

Something as simple as going for a walk outside can bring with it many benefits to our health! Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that has been proven to ease joint pain, improve heart health, help you lose weight & boost immune function. It also improves your mood and allows for a great opportunity to engage in social activity like taking a stroll with a friend or family member. 

Enjoy the Fresh Air While you're Gardening

As we age, the act of tending to a garden becomes not only a leisurely activity but also a fulfilling way to stay active and connected to our surroundings. The act of tending to a garden presents an array of health benefits, seamlessly blending physical exercise, and mental stimulation, plus the added benefit of tending to the space around you. It’s also a very accessible activity for most, as you don’t need to coordinate any transportation since you can do this from home! For seniors without a garden at home, the option of community gardening opens doors to shared spaces where they can reap the health rewards of cultivating plants while also battling social isolation.

Outdoor Yoga, Tai Chi, Or Other Group Exercises

Participating in activities like Yoga & Tai Chi are great low-impact activities for seniors that help promote improved balance, flexibility, stretching, and overall physical health. Additionally, they can be performed just as effectively outside as they are inside. Doing such activities outdoors can bring with it a serene and revitalizing atmosphere.

But it doesn’t just have to be Yoga or Tai Chi, participating in any fitness class outdoors, whether it's yoga, Tai Chi, or group exercises, brings about positive benefits. With almost any outdoor group activity, seniors not only gain physical benefits but also enjoy the social aspect of shared activities, fostering a supportive community that contributes to overall wellness.

Get Together for a Picnic

Whether in your backyard or at a local park, picnics are an easy and fun way for us to enjoy our meals in the fresh air. It also provides an easy-to-plan and executed activity that allows you to gather your friends, pack some delicious treats, and let the joyful conversations flow along with the gentle breeze.

 

What should seniors consider when planning on going outside?

We can’t stress enough just how important prioritizing time outdoors is. But, we also need to stress the importance of prioritizing safety. Make sure you know and plan around your physical limitations. We encourage all individuals to try something new but don’t push beyond your ability to stay safe. It’s important to have a well-thought-out emergency plan in place. It could be informing a loved one or caregiver of your location and an estimated time you plan on being out. Or perhaps a mobile medical emergency button, that can alert somebody of a fall or medical emergency when you are out and about. 

Make the most out of our warmer months and spend time outdoors. Embrace the beauty of Manitoba, and cherish each precious moment that contributes to a healthier and happier life. And don’t forget your hat and sunscreen!