Lighthouse Homecare understands the important benefits nature provides for our clients. We’d like to share a few with you!
Vitamin D
- 95% of seniors and 85% of the American public suffer from vitamin D deficiency which can contribute to common health problems such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and much more.
- A healthy amount of vitamin D can work wonders in fighting infections like the common cold and flu.
- Vitamin D is a necessary supplement for those of all ages, but did you know the need for this natural source of energy doubles after the age of 50?
- Sunshine contributes to healthy bone growth, cell growth, inflammation reduction, and neuromuscular function.
- Those exposed to 46% more sunlight after a surgery used 22% less pain medication per hour.
Brain Function/Stress Level
- The average American spends 87% of their time in enclosed buildings, along with 6% in vehicles, equaling a total amount of 93% of our lives spent inside!
- Spending as little as 5 minutes per day outside is enough to boost a persons mood, higher their self esteem, lower heart rate, and improve concentration skills.
- Enjoying nature can decrease aggressive behavior among Alzheimer’s patients, as well as reduce risk of depression.
- Elders shown pictures of scenic/natural landscapes showed heightened activity in areas of the brain associated with recall of happy memories.
What YOU can do to help:
- Suggest open windows to let in fresh air.
- Take pictures while out and about to show your loved ones, or give them a disposable camera to capture some of their own!
- No matter how light, try encouraging them to do some “green exercise” every day. Green exercise is simply exercising in the presence of nature.
- Start a garden; gardening can help dementia and stroke patients improve social skills, as well as confidence, and can even increase mobility and dexterity.
- Generally, people obtain 80-90% of Vitamin D from the sun. If they seem down or depressed remind them a little step as simple as sitting outside for a few minutes can make a big difference!
Wishing you health and happiness,
Lighthouse Homecare Staff