Fresh Air, Sunshine, and Movement: Simple Tools That Support Brain Health

By Bronson Stelzer, Dementia Care Specialist 

As the days get longer and warmer, it’s a great reminder that some of the most meaningful activities for people living with dementia can happen outdoors.

Time outside offers much more than a change of scenery. Research continues to show that regular outdoor exposure, natural sunlight, and movement can positively support brain health, mood, sleep, and overall wellbeing in older adults, including those living with dementia.

Sunlight plays an important role in regulating our circadian rhythm, or internal body clock. For individuals living with dementia, spending time in natural light, especially earlier in the day, may help improve sleep patterns, support alertness, and reduce late-day restlessness or “sundowning.” Exposure to daylight has also been associated with improved mood and overall quality of life.

Outdoor movement adds another layer of benefit. A short walk, gardening, sitting on a patio while stretching, tossing a ball, or simply enjoying nature can encourage gentle physical activity while stimulating the senses. The sounds of birds, the warmth of sunshine, fresh air, flowers, and changing scenery can all create meaningful sensory experiences that may spark memories and conversation.

Research also suggests that regular time in green space may support cognitive health and lower risk for depression and social isolation in older adults. Even brief outdoor time can help reduce stress and create a sense of calm and connection.

The best part is that it doesn’t need to be complicated and the outdoors is cost friendly.

Simple outdoor activity ideas:

• Morning walks around the yard or neighborhood

• Sitting outside with coffee or a snack

• Gardening or watering flowers

• Bird watching

• Porch stretches or chair exercises

• Listening to outdoor sounds and talking about what you notice

• Looking through old photos outside and sharing memories

• Visiting a local park or trail bench for a change of scenery

Even 15–30 minutes outside can have meaningful benefits.

Chippewa County Outdoor Ideas to Explore

We are fortunate to have many beautiful and accessible outdoor spaces right here in Chippewa County that can be enjoyed by individuals living with dementia, care partners, and families.

A few local favorites include:

Lake Wissota State Park – A wonderful place for a scenic drive, short walk, picnic, or simply sitting by the water.

Irvine Park – A Chippewa Falls favorite with shaded roads, walking paths, picnic areas, and the zoo. Great for a leisurely drive or quiet afternoon outdoors.

Old Abe State Trail – Perfect for a walk, wheelchair stroll, or bike ride with family while enjoying scenic views along the river.

Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area – A peaceful option for those who enjoy nature, wildlife, bird watching, and beautiful scenic drives.

Outdoor time doesn’t need to be strenuous or highly planned to be beneficial. Sometimes the most meaningful moments come from sitting on a bench by the lake, taking a short walk through the park, or simply feeling the sun on your face.

Whether you are a caregiver, family member, or someone experiencing memory changes yourself, fresh air, sunshine, and movement can be a simple but powerful way to support physical health, emotional wellbeing, and connection each day.

Dementia Care Specialist Tip of the Month

Try pairing outdoor time with an existing daily routine. Step outside with your morning coffee, take a short walk after lunch, water flowers in the evening, or sit together on the porch before dinner. Familiar routines can help make outdoor activities feel natural, enjoyable, and easier to maintain. Remember: it’s not about how far you go or how long you stay. Even a few minutes outdoors can make a meaningful difference.