Why Elderly Loved Ones Should Take a Trip to the Zoo

Elderly Care Estero FL

When we think of the zoo, the first thought that comes to mind are children crowding around the various animals in awe over the interesting creatures they will come in contact with. Elderly loved ones may also enjoy the zoo as much as a child. This simple trip can be a welcome change from the everyday schedule and allow the elder to bond with their family members or caregivers. If you do not have the time to fit a trip to the zoo into your schedule, a home care provider will be able to do it for you. These elder care professionals are experienced in monitoring the health of their elderly clients and transporting them to appointments and to run errands.

A trip to the zoo also has several benefits that your elderly loved one will reap, including the following:

  • Improves their health. Research shows that a visit to the zoo has been linked to lower blood pressure, a mood boost, and a more relaxed body. These health benefits have also been found in caregivers.
  • Remembers childhood memories. Elders with Alzheimer’s or other forms of disease may also benefit by going to the zoo, since the environment may trigger happy childhood memories.
  • The staff are willing to help. Staff members at the zoo often assist with disabled or elderly visitors. They will often have special audio assistance devices available, as well as giving special seating to those who require extra help. As helpful as these staff members are, they will not know you need assistance unless you say something, so do not be afraid to ask.
  • Get fresh air. Especially if your loved one is homebound or bedridden, it may be difficult for them to be out in the great outdoors, breathing in fresh, clean air. If your loved one is living by themselves, a trip to the zoo may also allow them to connect with other people.
  • Stimulates the mind. A new experience or new information can do wonders for the brain. A zoo visit will stimulate the mind by stimulating the neural activity in the brain.
  • Excellent source of exercise. Even for those elders with mobility issues, moving from one animal exhibit to another can give your loved one the daily exercise they need. If your elderly parent is not currently exercising on a regular basis, make sure to check with their doctor to ensure that walking throughout the zoo will be safe for them.

A trip to the zoo can be fun for all ages, but is especially beneficial to older adults. Think about these benefits next time you are planning an activity for your aging loved one.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Elderly Care Services in Bonita FL, call the caring staff at Dial-a-Nurse today. Naples: (239) 434-8000 . Ft. Myers: (239) 939-1228 .

 

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