Sunshine has health benefits we all can use. And this goes extra for those in senior care! Newbury Park, CA residents have ample opportunity to get some sun, especially as spring returns. Something as simple as opening the curtains and blinds, or going for a walk outside, sunlight has lots of health benefits that everyone would do well to take advantage of.
Yes, Sunlight can have some potential health issues for some who need residential assisted living. Newbury Park, CA residents may be at risk of sunburn, or maybe even skin cancer. Anyone in those categories should be careful. But excellent private care for older adults can help mitigate these risks through clothing or by applying a strong sunscreen. Then the full benefits of the sun may be enjoyed!
And the best “elderly care near me” comes from the licensed, trained, bonded CAREGivers of Home Instead. They can provide anything from occasional visits from senior daycare up to live-in caregivers for seniors.
And the benefits of the sun are numerous.
For one thing, sunlight helps improve your mood. And the benefit isn’t just emotional, it also is chemical. Sunlight helps to increase serotonin levels in the body. Research consistently finds that people are happier when it’s sunnier. Serotonin has something to do with that. Sunshine has more of an impact on mood than any other element of weather, including rain and temperature.
Along with all that serotonin is another hormone, melatonin. While serotonin helps to regulate and improve our mood during the day, melatonin helps us to sleep better. So increasing your sun exposure during the day can help you to sleep better at night.
Also, sunlight is the best natural source of Vitamin D. Vitamin D contributes to a healthier immune system, which means a healthier you. Vitamin D also aids bones in the absorption of calcium. Even just 5 to 15 minutes of direct sun exposure each week will make the difference.
As we just suggested, sunlight also helps with having stronger bones. Vitamin D helps the bones to absorb more calcium. More calcium in the bones means stronger bones. That means less risk of injury from a fall or other health issues like osteoporosis.
And last but not least, sun exposure helps to lower blood pressure. Naturally, our blood pressure improves when our mood and disposition improve. But also, when we are exposed to the sun, our body releases nitric oxides, which drive down blood pressure.
So if you feel like you’ve been stuck in the house for a long time, go out and get some sunshine! Your elderly assisted living helper from Home Instead would be happy to help you get outside and soak up some rays.
Call Home Instead today for a virtual or in-home assessment, 805-429–9789
