You’ve probably heard your doctor talk about the importance of vitamin D.
This vital vitamin
not only keeps your bones healthy, it also supports your immune system, muscles, and brain. The problem is, vitamin D isn’t readily available in the foods we eat, and many folks—seniors especially—don’t produce enough naturally without supplementation.
Luckily, we’ve got a potent source of this key nutrient just waiting for us in the sky. The sun is a powerful provider of vitamin D and can deliver its health benefits to those who safely soak it up. Let’s break down why sunlight is important for seniors and how The Birches supports successful aging by helping our Members safely reap its rewards.
How sunshine enhances senior health and wellness
Ready to discover the health benefits of sunshine? Join us as we explore them.
1. Sunshine for healthy aging
Physical benefits of healthy sun exposure include:
- Stronger bones and reduced risks for fractures
- A boosted immune system
- Increased energy
- Lower blood pressure
Those are some pretty major benefits! Encouraging the seniors you love to safely enjoy some sunshine time can support their overall health goals.
2. Sunshine and senior mental health
Embracing that golden glow can also unlock mood boosting benefits. Safe exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, minimize signs of seasonal affective disorder, and enhance mental health and well-being.
At The Birches, we’re invested in enriching the overall wellness and quality of life of our Members. With a wide range of outdoor activities in the warmer months, we encourage and support our Members to safely enjoy their time in the sun.
3. Sun’s out, fun’s out
Outdoor summer activities are the perfect way to enjoy this season.
When your loved one is a member of our community, they’ll get to choose which outdoor summer activities they prefer. We’ll help them participate and offer them all they need to feel empowered and involved.
From assisting with sunscreen application to closely monitoring their hydration needs, our team at The Birches makes sure outdoor time is enjoyable and beneficial for all. From time in the garden to cookouts to playing an accessible game of catch, there are so many ways to enjoy our many outdoor community spaces in the summer.
Our Montessori approach means we let our Members take the lead. We encourage them to make choices and direct their lives as they see fit. We love learning how they most enjoy spending time outdoors in the sun and helping them do it.
4. Shine a light on connection
Natural light streams through our windows for residents to enjoy. Our lovely outdoor common areas are also popular gathering spots to spend time with family and friends.
You’re always welcome to visit your loved one here. Why not join them for a picnic lunch in the courtyard, a leisurely stroll around our 2-acre campus, or a scenic tour of the garden? Summertime at The Birches is a time of togetherness and savoring one another’s company. It’s a chance to forge new friendships and feel a renewed sense of possibility.
5. Get in the rhythm
Natural light supports our circadian rhythms. This internal clock tells us when it’s time to get up and go to bed. When it’s regulated, it helps us get a good night’s rest and wake up ready to greet the new day. Seniors often face challenges with their sleep cycles. They may have trouble falling or staying asleep or get tired earlier and earlier in the day.
Sunlight can help reset the body’s internal clock to its factory settings. Morning sunlight is a powerful sleep cycle regulator. Seniors can enjoy more time in the sun in the mornings, when it’s not as hot and the sun’s UV rays aren’t at their strongest. Safely enjoying time in the sun supports overall senior health and wellness in powerful ways.
When your loved one calls The Birches home, we’ll listen to them and communicate with you to make sure they enjoy safe and rewarding times in the sun this summer.
Contact us anytime for personalized guidance with your senior living journey.
