The Benefits of Birdwatching for Seniors
If you’re in need of a new hobby, birdwatching should be at the top of your list. The activity is inexpensive, relaxing, and has many surprising benefits.
6 Reasons Birdwatching Should Be Your New Hobby
Residents of the Frankfort/Lafayette area are in luck: Indiana has a beautiful variety of birds to view, including white-throated sparrows, cardinals, mourning doves, Eastern bluebirds, and red-winged blackbirds. Watching these beauties in their natural habitat makes for a wonderful way to pass the time and enjoy the local environment. Here are several compelling reasons to start birdwatching this summer.
It’s Accessible
Whether you lack mobility or are an active person, birdwatching can be adapted to fit a variety of lifestyles. The activity requires minimal equipment- just a pair of binoculars and (if you’d like) a guide book to help identify birds. You can easily set up a birdwatching area inside near a window, outside on a porch, or take a stroll to see birds up close in a nearby park or garden.
Improves Physical and Mental Health
Birdwatching is an incredibly meditative activity that requires you to slow down and concentrate on the task at hand. This results in lowered blood pressure and decreased stress and anxiety, according to one study. Not to mention if you bird watch while on a hike, you’re fitting in valuable physical activity that improves cardiovascular health.
Encourages Socialization
Seniors can share the hobby with friends, family members, and other birdwatching enthusiasts (called “birders”). Get your grandchildren involved and you have a wonderful opportunity for bonding. Making birdwatching into a social activity increases the conversation and fun. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has suggestions for connecting with other aspiring birders, both virtually and in person.
Boosts Cognitive Function
Not only is birdwatching enjoyable, it also offers serious brain boosting effects. Identifying different species and learning about their behaviors stimulates the brain and enhances cognitive function, while noticing patterns in animal behavior and listening to bird songs can enhance mental alertness.
Promotes Continuous Learning
Continuing to learn as you age is so important. Birdwatching expands seniors’ knowledge of ecology, ornithology (the study of birds), environmental conservation, and more. It’s also a great opportunity to learn new terminology and generally become more curious about the world around you.
Connects You with Nature
So much of our lives have become fast paced. It’s easy to get caught up in the monotony of daily tasks and neglect spending time outdoors. Birdwatching offers you a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of life while also taking in the beauty of North Central Indiana.
Visiting Angels Helps Seniors’ Well Being
Are you in need of extra support around the home? If so, Visiting Angels of Northern Central Indiana can help. Our flexible home care services enable seniors in the Frankfort/Lafayette area to live full lives and pursue hobbies, including birdwatching. Caregivers will happily assist you with spotting wildlife, setting up a bird feeder in your yard, and maintaining a bird-friendly garden. Our goal is to help you enjoy your senior years at home, safely and comfortably.
To learn more, reach out today via our contact form or by calling 765-670-6260.