Assisted Living Communities Celebrate World Environment Day

Tis the season to support your local farmer’s market! This is one easy way to celebrate the environment on World Environment Day, June 5^th. Awareness of your habits is key to making a difference every day.  Do you find yourself throwing out rotting food from the refrigerator? “Think Before You Eat and Help Save the Environment” is this year’s insightful theme to honor World Environment Day.Think about what you eat and manage portion sizes for your health and for the environment. Many assisted living communities do this every day! They take the lead from their residents who become involved in the selection of menu items, grow fruits, vegetables and spices that are used by the chef, and sometimes the residents even get involved in food preparation!

Through every day practices and larger initiatives, senior community residents can take action to reduce food waste which drains our natural resources and contributes to the many people who go to bed hungry at night. Here are some ways to make a difference:

1. Volunteering Time: Mentoring and Participating in Feeding programs

Volunteering in community programs is perhaps the most impactful way seniors can make a difference in the world.  For World Environment Day, educators and those interested in mentoring the younger generation can talk about the benefits of organic foods, healthy eating practices, and environmental awareness.  Many seniors want to help feed the hungry and will donate their time and service to improve the lives of others.

2. Giving Donation: to UNICEF (Children’s Fund) and Starving Nations

Seniors who are not able to keep an active pace with volunteer work are able to participate in other ways. They can become involved in organizations that reduce food waste and promote proper nutrition through development funds. There are charity organizations that feed the hungry and assist the poor, worldwide. Outreach centers and church ministries have local offices and websites that facilitate easy donations.

The “adopt-a-child” sponsorship program is another way to help needy children to receive nourishment and medical assistance.  The child’s progress can be charted and communicated back to the sponsor, and oftentimes the sponsor corresponds regularly with the child through the organization. This is a rewarding way senior members can contribute to balancing the world’s natural resources, and at the same time feel as though they leaving something of value as their legacy.

3. Exclusive Outdoor Activities: Gardening, Enjoying Mother Nature and Exercise

Embracing the outdoors is a beneficial way seniors are able to nurture their mind, body and spirit (and get a daily dose of Vitamin D).  Planned outdoor activities help reinforce the gifts of Mother Nature, these include: taking leisurely walks around the property (or with ambulatory assistance) and breathing in the fresh air; planting fruits and vegetables using organic fertilizers; and participating in neighboring community programs that help to preserve natural habitats and maintain vibrant, healthy food chains.

4. Remaining Involved in the Wider Community

Assisted living communities recognize the need to maintain a supportive network, which includes collaborating with other senior care facilities. This enables them to participate as a collective force in opportunities that celebrate achievements, voice public concerns and set new guidelines for a better world.

Through ongoing commemorative events like World Environment Day and other significant activities (World Health Day, Fitness Week, etc.), assisted living  communities can help improve the quality of life for their residents, which in turn supports seniors in their quest to give of themselves for a sustainable future.  

Key Takeaways:

• “Think Before You Eat and Help Save the Environment” is this year’s theme to honor World Environment Day – June 5.
• Volunteering in community programs is perhaps the most impactful way seniors can make a difference in the world.
• Seniors can donate to development funds that feed the hungry and assist the poor, worldwide. These programs are made easily accessible on websites and local outreach programs.
• Embracing the outdoors is a beneficial way seniors are able to nurture their mind, body and spirit.
• Assisted living communities recognize the need to maintain a supportive network, which includes collaborating with other senior care facilities to form a collective force. 

Learn More about Assited Living

At United Methodist Homes we strive make a difference in our community and create a happier and healthier environment for all. If you are intersted in learning more about us please visit our website or contact us here!