Naturalist and writer, John Muir, once said, “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.” We couldn’t agree more and, in fact, research has also consistently agreed that nature benefits us in a number of ways, particularly as we age. This is why our boutique senior living homes are built in peaceful, rural neighborhoods. Here’s how they can help your loved one realize all the benefits of nature.
Nature’s Benefits for Seniors
We’ve all felt the weight lift from our shoulders in the warm sunshine, enjoyed the breath of fresh air that clears your head and can’t help but smile at seeing the flowers bloom. According to the UC Berkley Greater Good Science Center, over 100 studies have shown this is not just a coincidence. Spending time in nature can improve quality of life as you age by providing benefits that may include:
- Comfort in times of grief
- Improved attention span and memory performance
- Decreased likelihood of depression
- Boosted immune system
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower stress levels
- Increased energy
- Opportunity to be more active and engaged with others
Boutique Senior Living is a Natural Fit
We set out to create an alternative to traditional senior living that can feel overwhelming and institutional. Boutique senior living does just that by providing residential care in a home setting. It’s an experience that provides your loved one a better balance between the comfort of home and the care and amenities of those large communities.
Your loved one is literally in a single-family home, but one that’s specially crafted with features to make life easier, more meaningful and more supportive of their care needs – we even have a nearly unheard of 1 to 5 caregiver to resident ratio. None of our homes have more than 16 residents yet offer at least 4,000 square feet of living space!
However, creating the feel of home extends beyond the walls of the house so we make sure each property is located in a peaceful, rural neighborhood with a large yard – several acres in some cases -that’ s beautifully landscaped.
There’s plenty of space to enjoy nature whether it’s gardening, meditating, relaxing on the wrap-around porch or patio or spending quiet time walking the grounds. What’s more, our outdoor spaces create wonderful opportunities for connection as we often host barbeques and parties – a favorite of residents and their families!
Not Far from It All
Although our boutique senior living homes are tucked away, they are intentionally located near vibrant yet small-town Midwestern communities. So, your loved one is still near medical care, public transportation, shopping, dining, places of worship, outdoor recreation and any type of service they might need.
For more information on the benefits of nature in boutique senior living, schedule a virtual tour today or call (224) 333-6247 to speak to a Shepherd Premier team member.
