Many seniors resign themselves to staying indoors. Weather or mobility issues may be a contributing factor. However, the isolation and lack of physical activity can take a toll on emotional, mental, and physical health in the long run. Do your senior loved one a favor by encouraging him or her to venture outside, which offers many benefits.
1. Enhances Longevity
In a study that ran from 1990 to 2015, a research group from Jerusalem evaluated the lifestyles of more than 3,000 adults between the ages of 70 and 90. During that time, the seniors were asked to complete surveys based on how often they left their homes. By the end of the study, the researchers had learned the older adults who had ventured outdoors or away from home daily had a reduced risk of death compared to those who had left their homes once a week or less.
2. Prevents Depression
Remaining indoors for extended lengths of time may lead to loneliness and, eventually, depression. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports more than six million adults over the age of 65 experience depression. Lonely and depressed seniors are at an increased risk of developing hypertension or cognitive impairment. Going outside and being exposed to fresh air and sunshine are natural mood boosters.
Mental and emotional challenges are common for many aging adults, but they don’t have to manage them alone. Home care service agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
3. Increases Energy
Once seniors leave the seclusion of their homes, they’re bound to feel better emotionally. With a boost in mood, seniors are more likely to be enthused about engaging in any number of activities. Over time, they may find they have more energy to perform the tasks or hobbies that brought them joy in previous years.
If you usually help your loved one get out and about but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive live-in care. Vancouver seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.
4. Enhances Physical Health
Seniors of all ages need to stay as physically active as possible to gain health benefits. Leaving the house and going for a walk provides a great boost to an older adult’s cardiovascular system. Exercise strengthens the heart and relaxes blood vessels. The simple task of walking also strengthens the lower body and increases balance, which reduces the likelihood of falls. Getting outdoors, going shopping, or engaging in other activities regularly also reduces the likelihood of developing other medical issues.
5. Boosts Natural Immunity
Leaving the home and engaging in activities that enhance the cardiovascular system also benefit the body’s immune system. With adequate blood and lymph flow, white cells and chemical factors that protect the body are better able to travel throughout the body and monitor for possible infections or other abnormal cell invasions.
6. Provides Opportunities for Socialization
By going outdoors, seniors receive cognitive stimulation from the sights, sounds, and fragrances they encounter. While out of the house, older adults also get the chance to meet and greet people living within the community, which provides opportunities to enhance their social networks. Being outdoors may influence seniors to become more socially active within their communities. Social activity is also necessary for cognitive health.
Seniors with mobility issues or health conditions who need assistance with getting out of the house can benefit from the help of a trained professional caregiver. Vancouver, BC, senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate, professional home care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (778) 279-3634.