As summer approaches, a local retirement home operator shares the health and social benefits of spending time outdoors for older adults.

Homeowners with Adlington Retirement Living, which operates Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme, have shared how spending time outside benefits them physically and emotionally.

A spokesperson for Adlington Retirement Living said: "For older adults, gentle outdoor activities such as walking or simply spending time in natural surroundings are associated with improved well-being."

Homeowner Sue explained that she likes to take her binoculars and stroll down towards the river in Heaton Mersey.

She stops to watch for bullfinches or sand martins, and to exchange a few words with walkers along the path.

"I love to trundle around and go down to the river," she says.

"I take my bird book and my binoculars and a drink of water. People are really nice and talk to you when you're going along."

It is a simple pleasure that reflects something increasingly well supported by research: spending time outdoors has measurable benefits for both physical and mental health.

Evidence gathered through the Natural England 'People and Nature Survey' consistently show that adults who spend time outdoors report feeling happier, less anxious and more satisfied with life.

Having spent his working life as a medical practitioner, homeowner Trevor is especially aware of the health benefits.

He said: "I do two laps of gardens in the morning and two laps in the afternoon. I think four laps is not much short of a mile so that's the least that I do.

"The stimulus of moving into a place like this can be of great benefit." 

Walking remains one of the most accessible and sustainable forms of exercise.

Guidance underpinning the UK Chief Medical Officers' physical activity recommendations emphasises that regular moderate activity such as brisk walking supports cardiovascular health, muscle strength and balance, all of which are crucial for maintaining independence.

Organisations such as Age UK and Versus Arthritis highlight the role of low-impact activity in keeping joints mobile and reducing stiffness.

Movement encourages circulation within the joints, helping to nourish cartilage and maintain flexibility.

Homeowners Margaret and Keith have long been enthusiastic walkers and head out daily.

"We do brisk walking. We've always done it," Keith explains, describing their mile-and-a-half morning walks and occasional longer rambles when the weather allows.

For homeowner Pam and her partner Mike, regular walks revolve around Honey, their miniature Labradoodle.

Pam shared: "We take her for nice long walks and there are lots of good places for that around here."

On a good day they might cover two or three miles, often stopping at a dog-friendly café along the way.

Dog-walking brings with it an additional layer of social interaction – which supports cognitive health and can reduce feelings of loneliness.

Studies have found that dog owners are more likely to meet neighbours and develop local connections, with pets acting as natural conversation starters.

A spokesperson for Adlington Retirement Living said: "Stepping outside each day provides light, movement, perspective and often companionship.

"It supports stronger bones through vitamin D, steadier joints through regular use, and brighter spirits through contact with the world beyond four walls.

"Opening the door, taking a familiar path and noticing the season changing can be a powerful investment in health. "

To find out more about Adlington Retirement Living, join a coffee morning or book a tour, call the friendly sales team on 01782 958850.

They're ready to welcome you Monday to Saturday at Brookfields House in Newcastle-under-Lyme or visit adlington.co.uk

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