October 3rd

By Christy Nielson

Article touts nature’s benefits for seniors

There is a mounting body of evidence to support the theory that getting outside is good for your health – whether you are eight or 80. A recent post on the National Wildlife Federation blog examines the link between  regular contact with the natural world and longevity.

Start cultivating the good health habit to spend more time outdoors.

The article cites a number of researchers, doctors and studies, including one conducted in Japan back in 2002 that examined why some people live longer than others. Researchers analyzed more than 3,000 residents between the ages of 74 and 89. They found that the people who were still alive five years later had two things in common. 1. They lived near parks and green spaces where they could walk. 2. They spent more time in the sunlight than those who were no longer living. The take-away was that seniors would be healthier if they had access to walkable green space.

So if spending time outdoors is good habit that leads to good health, wouldn’t it be great if that habit started forming early in life? That’s what Lucky thinks – that kids and their families should start spending more time outdoors to cultivate good habits and good health for life.

Need some motivation to get off the couch and into nature? Check out TurfMutt’s Family Activity Guide for fun ideas.