The sun is shining, daffodils are everywhere and the evenings are lighter, that means spring is well and truly here and we can spend more time outside doing the things we enjoy most.
From our mental well-being to the physical symptoms, such as our joints loosening up with the return of the warm weather or the extra happiness we feel with some extra Vitamin D on our skins, there are endless benefits we receive from being outdoors!
Being able to spend more time outside ensures our activity levels are increased, and as you get older, being active has never been more important with strong evidence suggesting that pensioners who lead a more active lifestyle have a lower risk of strokes, heart disease, some varieties of cancer, type 2 diabetes, dementia and depression.
Dr Nick Cavill, health promotion consultant for the NHS says; “As people get older and their bodies decline in function, physical activity helps to slow that decline. It’s important they remain active or even increase their activity as they get older.” So, to reduce the risk of mental illness, stay pain-free, stay independent as well as maintaining a strong social circle in your elder years, the key is to stay active!
Below you will find four easy activities that will get you outside and having fun this spring:
Take photos
Sure, every person has an iPhone in the pocket, but why not dig out your old camera and start snapping away near where you live? If you can’t find your old film camera nip to a charity shop where they are constantly piled up. If you find walking around difficult, hop on one of our high-quality mobility scooters and snap away to your hearts content, you can even surprise your friends with a few impromptu photos! You can even go to places like Boots and have them printed within the hour. Your new hobby will sure to be a conversation starter in your social circles!
Start a bike group
To cover more distance and increase physical activities when outside, start a bike group with your friends. Not only is it fun but it will be better for your joints such as hips, ankles and knees when compared to walking. You don’t have to go far, but if you keep at it you will soon see your distances become longer and your physical health improve.
Gardening
There really is something about pottering around the garden… not only does it keep your hands, fingers and legs nimble but it has a soothing ability for your mind. We’re not talking about a garden makeover here, but just as much as you can do. Start with a small flower box outside your window, sow a few flowers and herbs and watch them bloom. If standing for more than a few minutes is a problem, consider using a four-wheeled walker to offer you respite and aid in balance.
Rowing
Rowing is a great activity for the elderly as the motions are a form of low-impact exercise, meaning that the exercise puts less stress on your joints and muscles by spreading the energy load over your whole body. This will improve your muscle tone, increase your stamina for everyday life and slow down your heart rate. There’s also a surprising benefit for elderly sufferers of osteoporosis, studies have shown that rowing is good for stimulating bone growth and builds bone mineral density!
Other articles you may also find helpful:
The best wheelchair friendly attractions in the south-west
The top reasons to go out in Spring
