The impact of sunlight for elderly health

The importance of sunlight exposure for older adults has been discussed in a number of studies. Sunlight has a number of health benefits for the elderly – both psychological and physical. Discover why moderate sun exposure is vital for older adults, and how to help your loved one get more sunlight exposure and enjoy it benefits.  

The benefits of sunlight exposure 

Source of Vitamin D 

Exposure to sunlight is key for the production of vitamin D in humans. Vitamin D plays a vital role in a number of aspects of health, and can support: 

Bone health 

Vitamin D is essential for our bones to be able to absorb calcium, which helps keep them healthy. Healthy bones are less prone to breaks and fractures from falls, which are a leading risk for older adults. Getting enough exposure to sunlight is key for maintaining bone health, such as bone density, in the elderly to protect them against injuries.  

Immune system function 

Evidence suggests that vitamin D helps support immune system functioning and can therefore help protect against diseases. As elderly adults are more vulnerable to a number of diseases and infections, including respiratory illnesses, vitamin D and sunlight can be useful for helping to maintain a healthy immune system.  

Muscle movement 

Recent studies have shown a link between vitamin D levels in and muscular health. Older adults with lower levels of vitamin appear to be at increased risk of decline in physical performance over the long term, which can put them at risk of falls and weakness. 

Improved mood  

Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. For older adults, getting more exposure to sunlight can tackle or prevent symptoms like low mood, aiding overall mental health. 

Activities for increased sunlight exposure 

Go for a morning or evening walk

Gentle walks in the garden or around the neighbourhood are a low-impact way to enjoy the sun when it’s milder. 

Do some gardening

Watering your plants or doing some weeding in the morning or evening is a great way to get some sunlight and some gentle exercise all at once.

Read or socialise outdoors

Set up a comfy chair or bench where you or your loved one can enjoy a book, tea, or a chat outside with friends and family. 

Sit beside a window

On days when going outdoors isn’t ideal, position seating near sunny windows to soak up natural light indoors. 

Home adaptations for increased sunlight exposure 

Create a sun spot

Set up a designated chair or table in a sunny part of the house or garden.

Use light-reflecting décor

Mirrors and light colours on walls or floors can help bring natural light deeper into indoor spaces.

Keep curtains open for at some of the day

Let the light pour in by drawing back heavy curtains or switching to sheer ones. This is useful in winter when daylight hours are more limited. But in summer, it is safer to close curtains at the height of the day.

Regularly open doors to gardens or patios

Making it easier to step outside encourages more frequent use. If mobility is limited, consider adding in a ramp from the patio doors to the garden to make it easier to access independently.  

Staying safe in the sun 

Sunlight can do a great amount of good for older adults, but it’s important to stay safe in summer, especially for the elderly who are more vulnerable to the heat. 

Lilian Faithfull provides both day care and respite care for the elderly, where we offer a range of wellbeing and engagement activities for our residents to stay well, including opportunities for going outside and getting the benefits from the sun.  

To find out more call 01242 303220 or contact us today.