The Importance of Outside Time in Memory Care Assisted Living | Get Outdoors Week
Outside time plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of residents in memory care assisted living. During Get Outdoors Week, they can celebrate the benefits of fresh air, sunlight, and nature, improving mood, reducing agitation, and stimulating positive memories. Discover why outdoor activities are vital for those in memory care and how they bring joy, relaxation, and a sense of freedom to everyday life.
Nature and Dementia
Spending a certain amount of time outdoors every week can provide many benefits, particularly for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s. The lack of vital vitamin D can lead to various conditions, including the increased risk of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Moreover, the lack of light can also lead to poor sleep patterns because light exposure is necessary in setting the body clock. Getting fresh air and exercise to reduce stress levels and agitation is also essential. Thus, it is important to incorporate periods outside for loved ones and carers.
Breaking the routine is also possible when considering outdoor activities for seniors in memory care assisted living. Thus, allowing people to participate in light activities can encourage people to be more sociable. In fact, studies have shown that even these light exercises can help with cognitive decline, keep their brain active, and slow down further cognitive deterioration.
Ideas for Outside Time in Memory Care Assisted Living
If you are considering outside time in memory assisted living, it is important to keep seniors rehydrated, especially during hot temperatures. Drinking enough water is crucial to avoid dehydration and heat stroke.
- Bonding with pets can be a fantastic way for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to be able to reduce anxiety and stress.
- You may also do some arts and crafts activities outdoors instead of indoors. You can use the backyard or sit in a park to enjoy the views and fresh air.
- You might as well go fishing because seniors can enjoy the scenery while waiting for fish to get on their line. It is also a relaxing way for seniors to enjoy and rekindle memories of younger days.
- Gardening may also benefit seniors because it provides a little physical activity. They will surely enjoy growing up and eating fruits and vegetables.
- Taking photos can also play a significant role in outdoor activities for older adults with dementia.
- It is also important that seniors have fun and enjoy the food available during outdoor time. One way is to conduct picnics and cookouts, along with some music, for them to have a good time and get everyone dancing.
- If possible, bring along your loved one who has dementia or Alzheimer’s to go for a walk. If they are physically able to walk and agree to go out for a stroll, then you should get them to walk as regularly as possible.
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