Nature Or Time Outdoors Can Do A World Of Good For Dementia Patients

  • December 29, 2020 BY  Anthem Seniors
  • Anthem Senior Advantage, Anthem Senior Living
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When someone we love or care for is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, we become extra cautious and make it a point to keep them as safe as possible. It goes to the extent of potentially keeping them indoors (not letting them outside in any way) to prevent them from wandering (a common behavioral symptom of dementia as the condition progresses) so that they do not get lost or hurt themselves. There’s no denying that an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or another form of dementia is a life-changing diagnosis that not only affects the patient but also their loved ones. It is also true that there is no proper cure to it. At the same time, keeping them locked up in the home isn’t a good idea as people living at home with dementia can easily become isolated.

It’s true that Alzheimer’s is a disease that robs individuals of their cognition, but these people are still very much present. They are still able to interact with their environment in many ways and feel emotion even with short-term memory becoming shorter and shorter with the progression of their condition.

The quality of an individual’s life declines as a result of their diagnosis. However, research has shown that nature or time outdoors can improve a patient’s quality of life. All of us know that experiencing nature and spending time outdoors is good for us, even there’s well proven bank of evidence backing this up. Keeping your loved one from participating in certain activities, such as going outdoors, may seem like a wise thing to do, however it can lead to feelings of depression or agitation. Not to mention, it prevents certain health benefits that can greatly increase quality of life.

There are many benefits that dementia patients can get out of regular outdoor activities, and this blog aims to discuss that:

Physical Health Benefits– There’s no question that people who are more active are going to be in better physical health. Dementia patients can greatly benefit their physical health by spending time outdoors in the form of improved sleep, better skin, diet, and awareness. The benefits extend to improved memory and verbal expression, as well as activity and exercise levels. The activities recommended for patients are often quite mild, such as walking, gardening, etc.

Improves Emotional Well Being– Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia often suffer from depression and other mental illness. This puts both those who suffer and those who care about them at the receiving end of many challenges. This is where spending time outdoors can do a whole world of good for both parties. Spending time outdoors can lift spirits, boost mood, and lower stress level, also (some activities) providing your loved one with a sense of purpose and a stronger sense of self and rebuilds their self-confidence.

Social Health Benefits- Most often, dementia patients end up isolated (can be attributed to their compromised social skills due to the condition) which eventually leads to depression. Getting outside increases the chances for social interaction for the patient by giving more opportunities for social encounters, thus helping them to feel less lonely and isolated, and helping to slow a patient’s cognitive decline and helps the person to remain independent.

Incorporate outdoor activities like gardening, eating, playing games (puzzles), bird watching, reading, and exercising (activities such as tai chi or yoga) into your loved one’s daily routine. These activities aren’t just easy on the physical side, but also stimulate the mind while increasing the chances for socialization.

If you’re finding it difficult to aid your loved one through their daily routine then it may be time to look into an assisted living Anthem facility. At Anthem Senior Living, we arrange for regular outings to ensure the overall well-being of our residents. To book a suite, contact Anthem Senior Living at 602.909.9550.

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