Getting Seniors with Mobility Issues Outside

Seniors can be prevented from getting outside of the house by a number of hurdles, both mental and physical. Depending on the capabilities and physical condition of your elder loved one, even a short excursion can take a great deal of energy and leave them exhausted. If you find yourself taking care of someone with mobility issues, the simple act of leaving the house, for any reason, can be daunting. However, breathing a little fresh air and getting out into the sunshine can accomplish more than just diminishing boredom and complacency. Studies have shown that people who get outside on a daily basis are less prone to a wide variety of health problems, such as chronic pain or sleep loss, and are more likely to remain active than their housebound counterparts.

But you may find that beyond the difficulty of the physical concerns of getting your senior loved one outside, they may be resistant to the idea in the first place. The key is to start small and be gentle, and offer plenty of encouragement. There are plenty of ways that seniors can enjoy time outside without having to travel great distances beyond their homes or overexert themselves. You can suggest any number of things to restore a loved one’s desire for fresh air, and possibly create a stepping stone to use to ease into regular outings.

You could start by suggesting they sit by an open window, even if just for a few minutes in the morning or evening, maybe to read their newspaper or enjoy a cup of tea. The fresh air on their face may inspire them to venture further outside. Many houses have features like a covered patio, a fenced in backyard, or a screened in sunroom. Your loved one may feel more comfortable if they can “get out” while still remaining inside or relatively close to their home, taking in the sun but avoiding the eyes of any neighbors or strangers.

Things like bird feeders can be set up within view of a window or the porch so some stationary bird watching can be done. If they enjoy it, you can enlist their help in keeping the feeder full, or suggest branching out into the park or other nearby outdoor spots to catch better views of birds in their natural habitat.

Planting some flowers or a small garden can offer nice views, as well as providing some outdoor activity. Certain plants attract butterflies and curious friendly bees looking for nectar. Seedlings are always an exciting thing to watch grow and change every day, especially when nurtured at the early stages of development. And the beautiful thing about a home garden is one doesn’t have to travel far to enjoy it by getting in touch with nature and admiring the blooms. A renewed interest in planting and gardening can become something greater, like a trip to the garden center or nearby botanical garden or arboretum.

Something as simple as a trip to the mailbox daily will provide fresh air and sunlight. The possibilities are endless so don’t be afraid to imagine the things you can do.