Benefits of Spending Time Outside for Older Adults

Wingate Living: Senior Living Communities | Nursing Home

Summer days are finally here! Getting outside is excellent for both mental and physical health for people of all ages. Being outdoors and enjoying the sunshine and fresh air has psychological benefits such as reduced depression and agitation. Spending time outside is an easy way to keep moving. Outdoor activities are beneficial for strengthening one’s overall mobility, including coordination, flexibility, strength, and balance. This is key for reducing the risk of falls in older adults.

At a Senior Living Community, such as Wingate Residences on the East Side or Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard, residents are encouraged to take advantage of exterior community spaces. Residents at both Providence communities can experience outdoor dining on our river view patio, breathtaking walking trails, and outdoor entertainers and lecturers.

Staying in touch with our senses is vitally important. Spending time outdoors offers residents a chance to utilize all five senses. Smelling the air, seeing the variety of colorful flowers, or simply listening to nature can help one feel alive. Gardening, and touching different textures that have been hidden all winter or feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin could have a positive effect on one’s mental health.  The seasonal tastes of summer foods such as watermelon and lemonade have an everlasting effect on our attitude and disposition. Summer memories of recipes, vacations, and outdoor activities can bring positivity to older adults, especially those with dementia.

The outdoor grounds at Wingate are the heart of our communities. Wingate Residences on the East Side sits on the East Bay Bike Path, overlooking the Seekonk River and Providence’s famous Crook Point Bascule Bridge. Residents at the community can either walk or bike along the bike path or take a stroll to the shops and restaurants on Wayland Square. Wingate Residences on Blackstone Boulevard sits on the Butler Campus, right off Rhode Island’s historic Blackstone Boulevard. Beautifully landscaped walking paths allow residents to enjoy light exercise, nature, and its scenery. Both communities offer gardening clubs where residents harvest vegetables and various herbs used in the Wingate kitchen, and found within seasonal meals.

Selling your home and moving into a senior living community does not have to mean sacrificing your sacred time in your backyard. Wingate Residences offers two communities in Providence that truly understand the benefit of sunshine and fresh air. Interested in gathering more information or taking a tour? Visit wingateliving.com and schedule your visit today!