Challenges
Shutterstock
Quick Win
A brief car or bus ride might be all you need to enjoy the many health benefits of nature.
Try This Today
- Botanical gardens and arboretums are often on college campuses, in preservation areas, on private properties and in cities. Find one that's open to the public, and plan a visit to take in the splendor.
- Plan your trip, noting hours of operation, directions to get there and admission fees.
- Check the facility’s calendar. In addition to providing a place to stroll and take in nature, many facilities also host community events such as concerts, guided tours and gardening classes. Make a note in your calendar of anything that sounds interesting so you can plan a return visit.
Why
It's not always easy to get outside for some fresh air, especially if you live in an urban area or have trouble getting around. But it’s worth making the effort: According to a systematic review published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2024 that looked at 12 studies of older adults, spending time in nature is associated with important health benefits, including lower blood pressure and less stress and anxiety. Two studies specifically reported slower cognitive decline.
More From Staying Sharp
Turn Off GPS — and Turn On Your Brain
Stimulate your mind by testing your navigational skills
Learning Music After Age 50
Never played or sang? Learning as an adult can stimulate your brain
Visual Cues to Manage Medications
These simple tricks will help you remember to take your pills each day