The activity of bird-watching encompasses many things. For some seniors, it's simply watching birds in the garden or feeding them using a bird feeder. For others, it’s a social activity of joining a club and going on bird-watching outings. The important aspect is watching birds interacting with their environment and learning how each bird has a personality, character and unique behavior.
Medical research has shown that seniors living with dementia benefit from interacting with nature. Here are six benefits of bird-watching for those with dementia.
Seniors with dementia may feel unconnected in surroundings that differ from those they remember. This is especially true for those who have limited opportunities to go out. Bird-watching and its associated activities allow them to immerse themselves in the natural environment and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature. This helps them reconnect to their environment.
The gentle physical activities of bird-watching improve cardiovascular health and can create a sense of well-being. Without putting excess strain on the body, these pursuits help loosen joints affected by age and arthritis. This exercise also helps the body release endorphins that can reduce stress and pain while improving the emotional state of mind of those affected by dementia.
A senior with mild dementia, whether alongside a single companion or in a group, has the chance to meet like-minded people and share experiences. Taking part in birding outings and activities helps develop a sense of belonging and creates social connections that are important for ongoing emotional health.
The identification of birds and learning how they act in their natural environment helps engender feelings of accomplishment in people with dementia. Also, seeing and recognizing birds from when the person was younger helps boost feelings of self-purpose and self-worth as they reconnect with old memories. At a deeper level, identifying rare and hard-to-see birds is satisfying, and using a checklist can remind seniors with memory-related conditions of birds they saw and identified.
Bird-watching takes time and may involve staying quiet for some time before shy birds come out of their hiding places. When this happens, seniors with dementia may experience the joy and satisfaction of observing the birds' normal behavior in their natural habitats. Sitting quietly in nature can also help bring peace and let seniors embrace the slower pace of natural life.
Enjoying the beauty of nature and creation's birds, animals and flowers can encourage seniors to forget their troubles and relax their minds. Being in nature encourages mindfulness, which is the state of being consciously aware of yourself and your surroundings. Bird-watching sharpens observation skills and increases the awareness of subtle details in the behavior of the wildlife. This mental exercise can help improve cognitive abilities and memory retention.
A pair of binoculars is essential. Even with good eyesight, it's difficult to discern fine plumage and subtle details that differentiate small birds. Avoid heavy binoculars, as it's difficult to hold them steady. Aim for 8x or 10x magnification.
A compact field guide or pocket book helps with identification. For those who can't stand for long periods, a lightweight stool or chair is necessary. Find a suitable place and wait until the birds appear. Sit quietly, and don't make unnecessary noises. Good places for bird-watching include botanical parks, nature reserves, ponds, parks and gardens.
Bird-watching is a low-risk outdoor activity, provided you take simple precautions. Seniors with a degree of memory loss should have a companion who knows and understands them. Choose easily accessible places, and if they have difficulty walking over broken ground, find locations with well-maintained paths. Safe locations include gardens, backyards and public parks.
Bird-watching is an enjoyable pastime that has many benefits for everyone, including seniors with dementia. Nature is healing, and exposure to natural stimuli reduces stress and anger and improves mental health. It enhances overall well-being. Watching birds creates feelings of joy, happiness and serenity. It's a natural companion to our BLOOM by Bethesda approach to memory care here at Bethesda Gardens Thornton.
