Getting out and enjoying nature is a great tonic for senior citizens. Being outdoors increases energy and vitality and makes older people feel more alive. Spending some time outside every day is a simple way for seniors to improve their mental, emotional, and physical health.

Benefits of Being Outdoors for Seniors

Spending as little as a half an hour outside enjoying nature every day can greatly improve state of mind and overall well-being. Being outdoors has a number of benefits for older people.

Increased Vitamin D Levels

A large portion of the American population has low vitamin D levels, and this is particularly true for seniors. Vitamin D is an important nutrient for boosting the immune system and fighting inflammation. Adequate vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Vitamin D and natural light are also directly related to a more positive outlook on life. Spending even just 15 minutes outdoors each day can help boost your vitamin D to the recommended levels.

Stronger Immune System

In a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers found that forest bathing (a short, leisurely trip to a forest) increases NK (natural killer cells) activity and intracellular anti-cancer proteins. NKs are a type of white blood cell that plays an important role in warding off tumors and viruses. The study also found that trees release phytoncides (essential oils) which decrease the body’s production of stress hormones.

Elevated Mood

It has been scientifically proven that spending time outdoors can reduce anxiety and depression and promote more positive feelings and better mental health. Seniors who spend time in parks and other natural areas benefit from improved mood and increased overall feelings of happiness.

More Restful Sleep

Research has shown that people who spend all day in artificial light may have difficulty falling asleep and sleeping through the night. Spending time each day outdoors in natural sunlight may help regulate your internal body clock for more restful sleep at night.

Home Alert Systems for Seniors Who Spend Time Outdoors

Studies have shown that nature really is the best medicine for seniors. For older people who spend time outdoors, it makes sense to have a home alert system that works whether you are indoors or out, at home or out on a nature hike.

Modern home alert systems come with cellular base units to travel with you and mobile GPS tracking, so the operator can pinpoint your location in an emergency, no matter where you are when it occurs. Many are available with free activation, installation, and equipment. Our medical alert reviews are a handy tool for comparing home alert systems to help you find a system with the features and equipment that work best for you.