Three Exciting Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors

With seniors in in mind, this article is sponsored by Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Warm and sunny days are upon us, but the nice spring weather won’t last forever. So, it’s time to get out of the house and find new ways to brighten your life after a challenging winter. According to studies, spending time outdoors carries a number of health benefits. But many people, especially those over the age of 65, don’t spend enough time outside, which might put them at risk for depression and other ailments.

You may associate the outdoors with a high level of physical activity, but there are many alfresco activities that are fun and beneficial without being physically demanding. Try these three fun and easy outdoor activities while you still can!

Planting a Garden

Studies suggest being closer to nature has restorative effects and gardening is a great way to connect with, and experience, nature’s power. To get started, all you need are pots or elevated containers, potting soil, lightweight tools and seeds of your choice. Then with regular watering and care, you could have a lush herb or flower garden in no time. This can add not just beauty, color and flavor to your life, but also a chance for light outdoor activity. Visit your local garden shop, or go online for supplies and helpful tips.

Taking a Nature Walk

Sometimes, improving your health is as easy as stepping out of your home and enjoying the fresh air, and. If you’re tired of the familiar neighborhood, consider taking a stroll in a nearby scenic park or nature preserve. You’ll get needed exercise while experiencing the beauty of the outdoors. Great places in our area include Noble Park and the Paducah Greenway trail, Metropolis State Lake Nature Preserve, Land Between the Lakes, the Lake Berkley Bridge multiuse path, and Perkins Creek Nature Preserve. Learn more at traillink.com or paducah.travel.

Taking Indoor Fun Outdoors

Everyone loves a good picnic! Lunch often seems better when four walls and a roof are out of the picture, but don’t forget other activities you can do outdoors. Take that board or card game you and your friends love out to the patio – or, better yet, take it to the yard or a spacious park. See how much more satisfying it can be to go for the win while listening to birdsong in an afternoon breeze.

Remember to stay safe. Here are a few tips to keep you bright, active and secure this season.

• Wear a hat and sunglasses. Consider a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

• Apply sunscreen. Mayoclinic.org recommends thoroughly applying sunscreen with broad spectrum 15 SPF or higher.

• Drink plenty of water. Take a bottle or two out with you.

• Avoid the heat of the day. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests avoiding the sun between noon and 3 pm.

• Observe social distancing guidelines. COVID cases are down, and vaccines are more widely available, but it's still a good idea to stay six feet apart from others and to keep a mask handy.

Now, get out there and enjoy the world around you!

Sources: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, mayoclinic.org, gpnc.org/chisholm.htm