5 Best Outdoor Activities for Home Care Patients

Throughout our life, maintaining physical well-being is crucial and surprisingly enjoyable. Outdoor activities offer exceptional ways for homebound individuals to stay fit, connect with nature, and benefit from sunlight and fresh air. This post explores some of the best outdoor activities for them, highlighting their diverse benefits for both physical and psychological health.

1. Spending Time Outdoors 

Spending time outdoors is not just a pastime but a component of a healthy lifestyle for everyone. Whether it's a leisurely ridge through the yard, tending to a garden, or enjoying a picnic with friends and family, being outdoors offers countless opportunities to engage with nature. Studies show that exposure to natural environments can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. The warmth of sunlight provides essential Vitamin D, which is beneficial for bone health and overall well-being. 

2. Hula Hoop

 Hula hooping isn't just for children—it's a fun and effective way for everyone to stay physically active and engaged. Using a hula hoop designed for adults, patients can enjoy a full-body workout that strengthens core muscles, improves flexibility, and enhances balance. The rhythmic motion of hula hooping not only tones muscles but also increases cardiovascular fitness and coordination. It doesn't matter whether they can do a full body hula or use just their arms or feet! It's a low-impact exercise that can be adapted to suit different fitness levels, making it suitable for seniors looking to maintain or improve their physical health. 

3. Moving Through the Sprinklers

Moving through sprinklers on a warm day is a delightful way for everyone to stay active, cool off, and have fun outdoors. Setting up sprinklers in a backyard allows patients to enjoy the simple pleasure of splashing through water. This playful activity not only provides physical exercise but also stimulates the senses and promotes laughter and enjoyment. The refreshing sensation of water helps seniors stay cool during hot weather while encouraging movement and agility. Running through sprinklers can be a social activity, bringing friends and family together to share in the joy of being outdoors and embracing the carefree spirit of childhood.

4. Bird Watching

Bird watching is a peaceful and rewarding outdoor activity that allows even the most fragile of patients to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty. Equipped with binoculars and a field guide, they can observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitats, right in their own backyard. Also, setting up bird feeders can attract birds to the area, providing them with regular opportunities to observe and learn about different bird behaviors and characteristics. Bird watching promotes mindfulness and concentration as seniors focus on identifying birds and observing their movements and interactions. It's a calming activity that encourages reflection and appreciation of the natural world while offering gentle exercise through walking and exploring outdoor environments.

5. Jump Ropes

Jumping rope is a classic and effective exercise that most people can incorporate into their fitness routine to improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance coordination. Using a lightweight and adjustable jump rope, patients can enjoy a little workout. Jumping rope is a versatile activity that can be tailored to suit different fitness levels, making it suitable for anyone looking to maintain or increase their physical fitness. While most patients won't be able to actually ' jump' the rope, they may be able to spin it with staff, and enjoying a little bit of outdoor movement.

Nurses: Don't Forget to Track Activity!

First and foremost, we should only be doing activities according to their care plan. So, only allow caregivers to have them engage to the specified levels. And when they do, don't forget to track it in the home health software as it's good exercise. For example, one patient's 'exercise' may be to sit up for 15 minutes; allow that 15 minutes to be outdoors. ( Always check meds to see if there's any sunlight precautions). Also, as a side note, don't forget the 10 best ways to show caregiver appreciation, as our caregivers work so hard to give our patients the best quality of life!

Conclusion

Outdoor activities offer numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits for seniors, enriching their lives and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Whether engaging in hula hooping or bird watching, patients find joy, fulfillment, and a renewed sense of vitality in these enjoyable activities. Embracing the outdoors allows them to connect with nature, nurture their creativity, and foster meaningful connections with others; but as stated above, remember to track it in the home care software! Maybe that way it'll encourage more staff to get them outdoors!