Researchers found by implementing more nature-inspired spaces – a koi pond or flower beds – in urban dwellings, health among seniors was boosted. Nature settings – those consisting of plenty of green and blue – promote feelings of renewal and spiritual connectedness they said.
“We zoomed in to everyday life for seniors between the ages of 65 and 86,” said lead author of the paper, Jessica Finlay.
“We discovered how a relatively mundane experience, such as hearing the sound of water or a bee buzzing among flowers, can have a tremendous impact on overall health.”
Researchers noted the seniors in the study used nature environments to stay active, connect spiritually and be social. This helped many participants improve their health whether they had a chronic illness or a disability.
Besides nature as a means of promoting healthier aging, Finlay offered three other suggestions as well in her findings:
1. Focus on your overall wellbeing: Mental and social health are just as important as physical health when aging
2. Get out the door regularly – strolling down your block is a good start
3. Prioritize everyday contact with nature – whether it’s sitting outdoors, listening to running water, watching animals etc.
The findings were published in the journal Health and Place.
Sources:
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-07/uom-eat070915.php