Why We’re Committed to Getting Residents Outside

Residents enjoy the privacy of personal living spaces, engaging activities, and the assistance of a trained caregiver available at all times. We provide freedom within a safe community where neighbors become friends. Residents enjoy the privacy of personal living spaces, engaging activities, and the assistance of a trained caregiver available at all times. We provide freedom within a safe community where neighbors become friends.

As the warmth of spring arrives at Care Cardinal, our activities calendar starts to fill up with weather-permitting ways to get out and enjoy the fresh air. We do this intentionally with our residents, as the benefits for regular outdoor activity are well worth the extra planning and effort that may be required for these events. And beyond our scheduled activities, we also do our part to encourage residents to get outside on their own, however, they are able. Here is why we do this.

It’s Good for Mental Health

It shouldn’t be hard to imagine that senior residents can fall into a rut in their routine at times. Being outside, whether for planned gatherings or just to get some fresh air, can be a relieving part of the day that is a bright spot in their day.

Studies show that people who take time to explore and enjoy nature are happier than those who do not. Plus, the outdoors offers a great chance to socialize, another thing missing from many seniors’ regular lifestyles. Our activities are designed to help people connect, meet new friends, and form new memories. All of this leads to a sense of fulfillment, satisfaction, and self-control.

Getting outside and moving can also help residents mentally, as they focus on a single activity, such as walking or playing a game with someone else. Some research shows this has benefits for memory and can reduce anxiety stemming from a lack of stimulation.

It’s Good for Physical Health

Vitamin D is an essential part of a healthy life, and during the winter it can be in short supply. Your body creates Vitamin D in response to sunlight, which can happen in as little as 15 minutes during a bright day. This has a whole host of benefits, including boosting immunity, reducing the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, and may even speed up healing from injuries.

Many outdoor activities are also forms of exercise, which vary depending on your mobility. Walking, gardening, and other forms of exercise can boost energy and help residents sleep more soundly and for longer, which comes with health benefits.

Nearly Anyone Can Do It

If you can sit and read inside, there is no reason you can’t sit and read outside on a nice day. Options and activities abound at Care Cardinal for residents of all mobilities and abilities, from nature activities in our landscaped courtyard to fishing in the pond. Many residents hang and maintain birdfeeders they can see from the comfort of their living area, while others take daily walks around our grounds.

Long-Term Care in West Michigan

As you can see, the social, mental, and physical benefits of getting fresh air on a regular basis are why we are committed to encouraging our residents to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible. It’s part of our overall commitment to compassionate and comprehensive care. To learn if Care Cardinal may be the right choice for you or your loved one, schedule a consultation with our team today. You can contact us by calling (616) 699-2014 or filling out our online form.