Spending time outdoors is part of a healthy lifestyle no matter how old we are. Sunshine and fresh air benefit us both physically and mentally. The elderly population residing in assisted living communities is encouraged to spend time outside, but they don’t always take advantage of the outdoor living areas provided for them.
According to a guide for elder care communities written by Margaret P. Calkins, Ph.D., of the IDEAS Institute, there are several reasons that explain why that is so.
Here’s the way it breaks down:
- Design
- Maintenance
- Operational issues
- Overall culture of organization
Creating an outdoor retreat
Enclosing outdoor living areas in assisted living communities or nursing home environments is far less expensive than completely remodeling them. In addition to creating a private area to enjoy, when working with a company that creates customized screens—like ours, for instance—it’s possible to completely change the ambiance.
Imagine stepping out the door and into a beautiful tropical garden. Adding potted plants, some flowers, and, perhaps, even a small water feature to the design makes the environment even more irresistible. Running water draws many people toward the sound because it inspires feelings of tranquility that soothe the soul.
Taking advantage of a customization feature gives designers the opportunity to create any type of environment! Managers of assisted living communities could easily involve residents in the initial planning stage. Gather everyone together to explain what’s going on and ask them to submit ideas. Where is their favorite vacation spot? What might still be pending on the “bucket list” travel destinations? Stirring up a buzz will do wonders toward infusing your community culture with a positive vibe.
As a matter of fact, it would be worthwhile to create several retreat areas! It can most likely be accomplished at a cost less than revamping one outdoor garden. Imagine, residents could migrate to their favorite spot to relax and unwind. They could relive the feelings of time spent at the beach or surveying a breathtaking view of the mountains. Anything is possible using customized mesh privacy screens.
How do they do it?
Using digital imagery, designs are reproduced directly onto the mesh screens. Dyes treated with additional ultraviolet (UV) protection ensure images remain vibrant for years to come.
Mesh screen enclosures are easy to clean. Have the ground crew break out the power washers occasionally to wash away collected dirt and debris. Any accumulated salt deposits get blasted away as well.
Coupled with rinse and dry furnishings and flooring, it’s easier to maintain than actual garden or park areas.
Other benefits residents will enjoy
Beautiful, peaceful surroundings coupled with a sense of privacy inspire feelings of well-being. Residents will enjoy a number of other benefits that will enhance those feelings.
They are:
- A shield from the elements—While screens don’t block 100% of the sun’s damaging UV rays, they do provide a degree of protection. Residents won’t be as apt to get caught in the rain that seems to spring up daily at times either.
- Protection from bugs—The finely woven screen allows every wisp of air to pass through. Bugs and mosquitoes, however, are stopped short. Even those annoying noseeums aren’t going to break through.
- Dirt and debris blocked—No more waiting on the ground crew to enjoy the great outdoors after a storm blows through. For that matter, some residents are sure to enjoy sitting outdoors during a gentle rain without hunkering under an umbrella. A deep breath of rain-washed air can be very refreshing.
- Safety—Sadly, some people suffer from Alzheimer’s or other maladies that cause them to have memory problems or to be confused. Screen enclosures provide them with a safe space to be outdoors. If necessary, a door could be locked, or perhaps the assisted living community would enclose an area that only has access from the inside out.
Providing a piece of paradise
The benefits of connecting with nature on a regular basis can’t be denied. Studies show that stress can completely melt away in as little as 5 minutes when escaping to the outdoors. That’s going to affect emotions, of course, but blood pressure and other physiologic measures benefit as well. It’s also a documented fact that exposure to daylight allows for a more peaceful slumber at day’s end. Getting outside for as little as 30 minutes during the late morning can keep the elderly from getting their days and nights turned around.
As for assisted living or nursing home residents who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s, spending time outdoors can trigger pleasant memories and sensations. It can also encourage interaction with others having a very positive impact on everyone.
Nursing homes and assisted living communities should consider creating an enclosed outdoor retreat—and maybe several—for those who live there. Benefits abound at a fraction of the cost of redesigning an unused garden area. Residents could be included in the beginning phases and create an exciting buzz that is certain to spill over into the entire community’s culture. Residents will have a bug-free space to enjoy—and that’s saying something here in Florida!
If you are a child who has reached the point of researching the best option for your elderly parent’s next stage of life, there are many online resources available to help you. Take your time and consider everything about the contenders. Leave no stone unturned to ensure that your parents will be happy and well-cared for while apart from you.
You know that’s exactly what they did for you.