As you age, finding ways to maintain your overall well-being becomes increasingly important. With the many distractions of your daily life, it's easy to forget the simple joys of nature. At Hermitage Roanoke, we believe in the power of nature to enhance wellness and enrich life's journey. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, our community provides ample opportunities for residents to connect with nature and enjoy a fulfilling, independent lifestyle.
Explore the benefits of spending time in nature, learn recommendations for how much time seniors should spend outside each day and discover some fun ways to enjoy that time this season.
Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors
Spending time in nature offers many benefits for seniors. Engaging in regular outdoor pursuits can help improve physical, mental and emotional well-being. Some tangible health benefits include:
- Improved Physical Health: Fresh air and sunshine can boost immune function, increase vitamin D levels and improve cardiovascular health. Walking and gardening can help seniors maintain their mobility and strength, reducing the risk of chronic health conditions, including heart disease and arthritis.
- Mental Clarity and Reduced Stress: Studies show that nature has a calming effect on the mind. Being outside, even for small periods, can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. As a result, seniors may experience a greater sense of calm and relaxation in their daily lives and a more positive mindset. Our serene environment at Hermitage Roanoke provides the perfect setting for meditation and mindfulness.
- Enhanced Social Interaction: Spending time outdoors encourages social interaction. As people age, this becomes crucial for maintaining cognitive function and emotional well-being. Whether you join your neighbors for a leisurely stroll around our campus or attend one of our many organized community events, doing these things helps foster a sense of belonging and connection.
How Much Time Should You Spend Outside Each Day?
While the ideal amount of time seniors should spend outside each day varies, a general guideline is to spend at least 20 to 30 minutes outside daily to reap the benefits of fresh air and natural light. This can be as simple as enjoying your morning coffee on the patio, taking a casual walk or spending time gardening. For those who can do it, increasing the recommended time to 1-2 hours a day can provide even more significant benefits. Longer periods in nature allow for more immersive experiences, such as hiking, picnicking or participating in outdoor recreation. No matter your abilities and interests, the key is to make outdoor time a regular part of your daily routine.
Factors such as your health and mobility often influence the amount of time you spend outdoors. You must also consider the weather conditions and plan accordingly. During warmer weather, when the sun can get hot and temperatures can climb, seniors must take necessary precautions. Applying sunscreen, wearing weather-appropriate clothing and staying hydrated are some simple ways to ensure your outdoor experience is safe and comfortable.
Outdoor Pursuits during Warmer Weather
During the warmer weather months, it is the perfect season for seniors in Roanoke to explore the great outdoors and engage in fun, refreshing activities. At Hermitage Roanoke, we work hard to provide opportunities for residents to make the most of the beautiful weather. Some top suggestions for simple ways to get outside and enjoy nature include:
- Going on a walk. Walking is one of the simplest and most accessible forms of exercise. It requires no special equipment and can be done at any pace. For seniors, walking in nature can be a physical and sensory experience. Our community features paved walking paths for casual daily strolls. But there's far more to explore beyond our campus. The Roanoke area is home to over 1,000 miles of trails for all skill levels, including the Roanoke Valley Greenways. Invite a friend to enhance the experience and get a little extra motivation.
- Exploring a new area of town. Roanoke has no shortage of exciting destinations to explore, so why not get adventurous? Grab a friend, and set off to a location you've never visited. Whether it's going to a local farmers' market, spending the afternoon in the historic district or finding the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic, these outings offer a great way to stay active and engaged with the greater community.
- Gardening. When you're seeking something quiet and relaxing, gardening offers a tranquil way to connect with the natural world, from the physical activity of planting and weeding to the satisfaction of nurturing and watching your plants grow. At Hermitage Roanoke, our grounds feature opportunities for gardening where residents have their own garden space for cultivating a personalized selection of plants and flowers.
- Bird and animal-watching. For those with patience and a keen eye, bird-watching is a peaceful and educational pursuit. Our campus at Hermitage Roanoke spans 10 acres and is full of diverse plants and wildlife. Observing local critters, such as birds, butterflies and other animals, can help you obtain a greater sense of appreciation for the natural world. Grab a pair of binoculars, and consider bringing along a notebook or camera to record your observations.
Indulge in a Holistic Lifestyle at Hermitage Roanoke
At Hermitage Roanoke, our focus is on health and wellness. We understand the importance that nature plays in residents' overall well-being. Our community offers a serene and inviting environment where residents can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. From our garden-style apartments to our paved walking paths and outdoor spaces, our community's numerous amenities enable residents to experience the full benefits of nature.
This is just the beginning of what being a resident at Hermitage Roanoke entails. Schedule a tour today to learn more about becoming a resident, and what's offered here in our community. Contact us at 540-767-6818 to speak with our team and schedule a visit to our beautiful campus.
