"Spending at least two hours a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing," according to a 2019 study published in Scientific Reports.1
The simple act of being in a natural outdoor environment can elevate your mood and enliven all your senses. The gentle breeze and warm sunshine on your skin, the sound of birds chirping and the endless blue sky create a feeling of freedom and vitality.
When you’re ready to head outdoors, Mobility Plus has a large array of mobility aids that can be tailored to your needs.
How to Select Mobility Aids for Outdoor Activities
The type of equipment you need will depend on your physical capabilities, activities planned and distance you will be traveling. The following equipment can be used alone or in combination with each other:
- Canes
- Walkers
- Manual wheelchairs
- Transport chairs
- Power wheelchairs
- Scooters
All-terrain wheelchairs and scooters feature larger tires and front casters that are designed for traveling over rough terrain or obstacles. Rollators are also available in a more rugged outdoor configuration.
Some scooters can go 4 to 24 miles on a single battery charge, giving you the ability to accompany family or friends on a longer outdoor adventure.
If you want to take a refreshing dip in a pool, an aquatic lift chair makes the transition smooth and safe.
Add Accessories to Carry Your Belongings
Our Mobility Plus experts can help you select the best equipment and accessories for your specific needs.
Health Benefits of Spending Time in Nature
Here are just a few of the benefits of getting outside and soaking up the healing power of Mother Nature:
- Improve Sleep - Daily exposure to sunlight naturally regulates circadian rhythms – your body’s internal clock – for a better night’s sleep. The calming sights and sounds of nature can also clear your mind and make you feel more relaxed.
- Release Feel-Good Hormones - Exposure to sunlight increases the hormone serotonin, which can boost your mood and lessen anxiety. It also creates a sense of wellbeing and helps ward off depression.
- Increase Vitamin D Production - When your skin is exposed to direct sunlight, it produces vitamin D3. This vitamin stimulates the absorption of calcium, which is essential in maintaining strong bones. Vitamin D also helps fight off infections and decreases your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders and some cancers. (If you plan to be out in direct sun for a prolonged period, apply sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.)
- Connect with Others - When you head outdoors, you have more opportunities for socializing with your neighbors, grandkids and others that you may encounter on your excursions to the local park, outdoor sporting events, summer festivals or farmers markets.
Reclaim your Freedom and Get Outdoors
Just because you have mobility limitations doesn’t mean you have to spend your days stuck inside your home. With our full line of mobility devices and accessories, you can safely venture outdoors and enjoy the healing benefits of nature — whether you’re birdwatching and picnicking at your favorite park, cruising around the neighborhood or spending time at the beach with loved ones.
For a free home assessment, call your local Mobility Plus store or visit us at www.mobilityplus.com.
1. White, M.P., Alcock, I., Grellier, J. et al. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Sci Rep 9, 7730 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3
