In 2020, COVID-19 threw the world into lockdown, and many of us began to appreciate the importance of nature again. Getting away from crowds and exploring the outdoors was the recommended way to spend time. So, we went for more walks, started new gardens, and found local parks and green spaces to enjoy.
Many found tranquility in these simple pleasures and changed their lifestyles. People with dementia can also benefit from these types of activities.
Our San Antonio Alzheimer’s care community embraces the sunshine and fresh air. Being among nature is a part of the services offered in A Garden Walk, the signature memory care program at The Gardens of Castle Hills.
Outdoor Activity Improves Well-Being for San Antonio Alzheimer’s Care Residents
Rediscovering the beauty of nature helped many of us cope with the stress of that time, which makes sense. Research has shown that getting fresh air and sunshine helps:
- Improve mood
- Regulate sleep cycles
- Lessen anxiety
Spending time in nature is linked to cognitive benefits and improvements in mindset, mental health, and emotional well-being. This is especially true for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. They benefit from a calming environment and can participate in physical and social activities for Alzheimer’s that keep the body and mind active.
Many of those activities can be found outside. Let’s discuss these practices and show how our dedicated Alzheimer’s care in San Antonio, TX can help.
Going For a Walk
Regular exercise is excellent for the body and mind; it can even stave off depression and improve mental function. Going for walks is a perfect way to get the recommended 150 minutes of physical activity per week.
- The Gardens of Castle Hills is a big supporter of our local Alzheimer’s Association chapter. We support it by hosting on-site walks – that way, our memory care residents can participate in the fight for a cure.
Gardening
Gardening is a popular activity for seniors and even counts as a light aerobic activity. It is very beneficial and can be incorporated easily into a daily routine.
- Residents at our memory care in San Antonio love to dig and see the fruits of their labor.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is a great choice for seniors who want to connect with nature. It’s a calming activity that allows for reflection, is task-oriented, and engages several senses.
- We were so excited when students from nearby Lee High School stopped by to put up bird feeders for our dementia care residents. It’s so refreshing to watch the sparrows and finches eat and play.
Outdoor Musical Concerts or Performances
Listening to music is an excellent way to engage seniors with memory loss. It helps connect emotion and recall, and stimulates communication centers in the brain. Listening to outdoor concerts in the courtyard or playing an instrument helps seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia reconnect.
- Holiday concerts are one of our favorite activities.
Picnics or Park Time
Everyone loves a good picnic or a day to spend time with friends outside. Fresh air and good conversation are great for both seniors and caregivers.
- Our local owners, James and Suzanne Denny, love hosting summertime BBQs for residents.
Senior Activities Near Central San Antonio
Older adults in our memory care program feel supported and benefit from making emotional connections and staying active in daily life. The Gardens of Castle Hills provides a full activity calendar that encourages residents to take part in engaging, stimulating events like:
- Walking
- Gardening
- Singing and dancing
- Arts and crafts
- Board games and trivia
Our Activities Director ensures that our residents live fully in the moment by personally encouraging them to participate in hobbies that bring them joy and improve their quality of life.
In addition, our dedicated, trained team works with families to develop customized care plans for their loved ones. We’ve thoughtfully designed our memory care environment so residents feel welcome, comfortable, and understood.
At The Gardens of Castle Hills, an Alzheimer’s Association-certified community, your loved one will experience friendships, activities, personalized care, and happiness in a beautiful, tranquil neighborhood.
Alzheimer’s Care:
San Antonio’s The Gardens of Castle Hills
Learn more about Alzheimer’s care in San Antonio’s Alzheimer’s Association-certified community, The Gardens of Castle Hills. Contact us to arrange a tour or attend a support group.
