Spending time in nature is one of life’s simplest—and most powerful—pleasures. For older adults, the benefits of being outdoors go far beyond just fresh air. Time in nature has been known to boost a person’s mood, reduce stress, support physical health, and even spark creativity.
The best part? You don’t have to travel far or take on anything too strenuous to appreciate these moments. Below are some easy and delightful ways to experience nature while staying connected to yourself, your community, and the world around you.
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Download the GuideTake Walks in Parks or Gardens
One simple way to take in nature is by going for a walk. While there are health benefits to regular physical movement and getting some fresh air, walking through a park, garden, or greenspace can make doing so even more pleasant. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of some birds or small animals along the way.
Many botanical gardens and arboretums are made for such excursions, with paths that wind through a variety of greenery and blooming flowers. They also often include benches or seating areas throughout, allowing you to take breaks when you want to. For added comfortability, don’t forget to wear the right shoes and activewear.
Learn more about activewear and footwear for seniors.
Try Outdoor Classes for Seniors
Whether you bring your tablet to a park or take an in-person class that meets outdoors, learning outside can help you maintain both a sharp mind and connection to nature. Take whatever classes interest you, just try doing so in natural surroundings.
If you’re unsure where to start, try looking for classes that tie back to the great outdoors. For example, yoga, photography, and painting classes usually have outside learning opportunities. Depending on where you live, you might even be able to find classes about local flora, fauna, and natural history. It’s a great way to learn about and deepen your connection to nature.
Learn more about fun class ideas for seniors.
Start a Container Garden or Join a Community Garden
What better way to experience nature than by helping maintain the balance that allows it to flourish? In other words, get your hands in the dirt and do some gardening! The care, patience, and work that goes into taking care of a garden not only deepens your connection to the plants you’re growing, but you’ll also gain a sense of satisfaction when you see the fruits of your labor.
Some enhanced senior living communities, such as Senior Lifestyle, provide space for gardening, such as shared gardens, private gardens, and private patios. The size of the garden doesn’t matter, so just take on what you’re comfortable with. A container garden of herbs on your patio, for example, will require some TLC, but it’s less physically demanding to maintain. Shared or community gardens, on the other hand, will require a bit more work, but you’ll also build connections with your neighbors that could flower into new friendships.
Learn more about the benefits of gardening for seniors.
Do Arts & Crafts Outdoors
Doing arts and crafts can already be relaxing for some people. Add in the soothing sights and sounds of nature, it can be a truly meditative experience that helps keep your hands nimble and your mind sharp.
Just about any project can be done outdoors, including quilting, knitting, and scrapbooking. For a truly connected experience, consider incorporating your natural surroundings into your projects. For example, you can take your paint supplies to your favorite park and create a landscape painting of your favorite view there. You could also decorate your scrapbook with pressed leaves from around your neighborhood. Like many creative projects, the options are limited only by your imagination.
Learn more about fun crafts for seniors.
Dine Outside—Even Just on the Porch or Patio
Meals have historically served two purposes—a source of nutrition and a time for connection. While the latter is usually associated with family and friends, taking a meal outside also gives you a moment to appreciate and connect with nature.
Some people may immediately think of picnics when speaking of eating outside, but there are other less-involved options. You could try taking your morning coffee out on your porch or eating lunch on a shaded patio. In fact, some elevated senior living communities even provide outdoor options for restaurant-style dining, meaning you’ll have less work to do and more time to treasure a bounty of food and friends outdoors.
Learn more about what to expect when dining at a senior living community.
Delight in the Experiences You Love with Senior Lifestyle
Whether it’s strolling through a garden or enjoying restaurant-style dining on a patio, experiencing the beauty of nature can brighten your day and make you feel more connected to your surroundings. As Albert Einstein said, “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
At Senior Lifestyle, we understand the importance of these connections. All of our Levels of Care offer a variety of programs and social settings that provide plenty of opportunities for our residents to get outside, have fun, and live the life they desire. From Independent Living to Assisted Living to personalized Memory Care in our Embrace Neighborhoods, this is where comfort, convenience, and connection come together.
Find out more about Senior Lifestyle or schedule a visit today!