Blog: Benefits of a dose of the great outdoors

Numerous studies tell us that spending time outside in nature brings incredible health benefits.

At our national conference last year, Age Scotland delegates attended an interesting and thought-provoking workshop on Nature, Growing and Enjoying the Outdoors. The presenters were Gail Barton, chief officer at Town Break, Dementia Support Services, and Jane Mitchell, manager of the Mearns & Coastal Healthy Living Network (MCHLN).

When restrictions eased, MCHLN based in Laurencekirk, Aberdeenshire, were quick to resume their outdoor activities, which include three health walks and two social gardening groups. Most of their members live alone and staff are very aware of the risks to health of continued isolation and loneliness.

MCHLN used outdoor spaces to pilot an outdoor exercise class, strength and balance activities and one-on-one meetings for support and company. In addition, the Portlethen social gardening group’s work on maintaining and improving the grounds at Portlethen Station in Aberdeenshire won the top prize in Scotrail’s “Adopt a Station” competition, providing a well-deserved sense of pride and achievement.

Jane Mitchell, manager of MCHLN, said:

“It was especially heartening to hear members say how great it was to get out and see people again, have company and some semblance of normality and structure to their week. Rotas to limit numbers at all the groups ensured that anyone who wanted to attend could do so safely.”

Town Break in Stirling supports people living with early-to moderate-stage dementia and their carers. Gail’s presentation focussed on the importance of looking at the interests, skills and experiences of the person living with dementia and also underlined the significant role being outdoors plays in sensory and cognitive stimulation.

Gail Barton, chief officer at Town Break, said: “Touching the soil, talking about the natural world around you, listening to birdsong and feeling the wind on your face – these are all opportunities for people living with dementia to reminiscence, relearn, revisit skills and re-engage the senses.”

Health benefits of getting outdoors:

1. Being outside boosts vitamin D levels

Exposure to natural light is powerful. Spending about 15 minutes of time each day in the sun is an ideal way to boost vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is directly related to an improved immune system and a more positive outlook.

2. Nature can help boost immunity

By helping older people feel more positive and increasing mental health, the great outdoors can help older people build and maintain healthy immune systems and improve sleep.

3. Being outside helps us feel more energised

Tired? Take a walk! Getting outside is a great way to feel more energised if you are feeling sluggish and can lift your mood. 

4. People who join walking groups feel less lonely

Walking helps combat loneliness and isolation by providing opportunities to stop and chat. Participation in regular organised walks or other exercise classes provides regular physical and social activity for people who might otherwise be less active, and less socially engaged. 

5. Being outside helps improve mental health

Being outdoors gives the brain a break from everyday multitasking and allows it to form new memories. This contributes to higher attention levels and improved mental health.

Read the latest edition of Advantage magazine here.