Exercise – we all need it. And, for many Canadians, the summertime provides the perfect time to get those necessary workouts in. This is because they prefer the great outdoors over the confines of a gym. Exercising outside can be a lot of fun. It’s important, however, to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated during any outdoor activities.
This is especially true for seniors who are the most susceptible to health issues if proper precautions aren’t taken. The last thing you want is for the heat and humidity that the summertime provides to make your elderly loved one fall ill. With that said, it’s still vital that the senior in your life spends some time outdoors while the weather permits.
Fresh air is good for everyone!
“Fresh air is full of oxygen, which is essential for every single cell in your body,” explains RetireAtHome.com, “Breathing fresh air helps your lungs dilate more fully and cleanse more effectively, increasing your oxygen intake and giving you a boost of energy. It also improves immunity by refreshing your white blood cells, which are responsible for killing bacteria and fighting off germs. By breathing in fresh air, you are giving your body the fuel it needs to stay healthy and active.”
Naturally, seniors shouldn’t engage in any rigorous activities when they head outside. In a separate RetireAtHome.com article, Shawna Epstein recommends such light activities as gardening, fishing and golfing for seniors. She also list metal detecting, nature photography and yard games as a few other unique ways for elderly people to spend their time outdoors. As well, Epstein notes that walks around the block are great ways for seniors to stay fit.
“Walking around leisurely can be very helpful,” she writes, “In addition to being a type of exercise, walking around the neighbourhood or in the park may enable senior citizens to make new friends, take note of changes in the neighbourhood, and enjoy some sunlight and fresh air. Having great company while strolling is recommended as it prevents the short daily walks from becoming monotonous.”
Fresh air isn’t just good for the body, it’s good for the mind!
Caregivers of elderly people are well aware that negative moods can significantly impact physical well-being. One of the best reasons to get seniors outside is to lift their spirits. It can be incredibly beneficial for your elderly loved one to get out into the sunshine instead of being cooped up in the house all day. And as RetireAtHome.com explains, fresh air plays a role in making people happy.
“Oxygen stimulates your body to produce serotonin, a chemical that lightens your mood and increases feelings of calm and wellbeing,” the site explains, “Studies have also shown that breathing in the scent of the outdoors, such as flowers and pine trees, makes people feel happy and relaxed.”
Safety should always remain first.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we advocate for seniors to enjoy the great outdoors but stress the importance of keeping them safe. We proudly provide such mobility solutions as walkers, rollators, wheelchairs and other walking aids to help seniors safely get from one place to another.
For more information about the mobility solutions offered by Advantage Home Health Solutions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
