Physical Activity and Mental Health

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental health means feeling, thinking, and acting in ways that allow you to enjoy life and deal with its challenges.

Poor mental health is not part of normal aging, but mental health problems can continue into older age. Mental health problems can also arise later in life from physical changes or from life changes, such as losing a loved one or increased isolation.

How can “nature” support our mental health as we get older?

We have known for some time that physical activity benefits our mental health. For example, studies have shown that regular physical activity (particularly in a group setting) can ease depression in older adults.

More recently, researchers have been looking at outdoor activities and mental health. These activities do not have to be ‘exercise’. Spending time in green spaces benefits our mood and health. ‘Green spaces’ are any spaces the public can access with natural features like plants and trees.

A recent review of research that included older adults showed that nature-based activity therapies reduced depression and anxiety and enhanced a person’s positive experiences. The researchers saw the greatest benefits after 8 to 12 weeks of regular outdoor activity. Each session in nature lasted 20 to 90 minutes. These benefits seem to come from a combination of things: connection to nature, social support, physical activity, and purposeful behaviour.

There are many ways to connect with nature

Advocacy is growing for more green spaces in our communities that are age-friendly and thus accessible for all. But you don’t have to live near a forest or park to connect with nature. Green activities like community gardening, nature-based arts and crafts, or using the fitness equipment at a ‘seniors park” are all outdoor activities that can positively influence our mental health and well-being. The regular connection with nature can even be a bench with a view of a flower garden or a water fountain. Even small interactions with nature can benefit the quality of life for older adults.