Get Outside This Summer: A Simple, Sunny Way to Heal Together

Caring for a stroke survivor comes with an overwhelming to-do list. Between therapy appointments, medication routines, and constant care, it’s easy to forget that healing isn’t just about what happens inside. Sometimes, the best medicine is found under the open sky.

Why Going Outside Matters for Stroke Survivors and Caregivers

Being outdoors isn’t just about getting fresh air. Science shows that natural sunlight boosts Vitamin D levels, which can help regulate calcium, strengthen bones, and even support immune function (NIH, 2023). It also plays a critical role in producing dopamine—a neurotransmitter responsible for motivation and pleasure (Harvard Health, 2021). For stroke survivors, this chemical support is essential for mood and cognitive recovery.

And let’s not forget the eyes—yes, the eyes! Natural light has been linked to improved visual acuity and can be beneficial for survivors with visual deficits post-stroke (American Academy of Ophthalmology).

But the benefits aren’t limited to survivors. As caregivers, we need a break from the stuffy house, the emotional weight, and the hypervigilance. Changing your environment, even for an hour, gives your nervous system a reset. It offers you and your loved one a chance to interact as people, not just patient and caregiver.

Reclaiming Joy: Ideas for Getting Out This Summer

Find Free Local Events: Summer concerts, outdoor movies, and art fairs are often accessible and welcoming. Look up your city’s parks and recreation calendar.
Join a Stroke-Friendly Group: Search for support groups that plan accessible outings. If one doesn’t exist, consider organizing a casual meet-up!
Explore Nature (Your Way): Whether it’s a quiet stroll with a power wheelchair or sitting at a park bench watching the ducks, nature works its magic in all doses.
Use Handicap Transit: Many cities offer reduced-fare or paratransit options for people with disabilities. Check out Eldercare Locator to find services in your area.

Social Media Likes, Dopamine, and Healthier Habits

Social media likes, comments, and shares trigger small dopamine bursts, much like sunshine does. Dopamine is linked to motivation and reward, making it a useful tool for building healthy habits (FastCompany, 2024). That said, it’s important to use this to your advantage without falling into the trap of seeking attention through negativity.

Posting a happy photo from your outing or sharing a win (like your loved one standing a little longer or smiling more often) can reinforce your desire to keep going. It creates a loop of positive feedback—dopamine reinforcement—that can actually help you make outings and joyful moments a regular part of life.

Just be mindful: social media can also provoke negative emotions if we’re not careful. Focus on authenticity and connection. If your goal is to share joy and receive support, you’ll feel better than chasing numbers or getting caught up in comparison.

For Your Bond, and Your Sanity

Being together in a new setting can help you both reset emotionally. If you’ve been snapping at each other or just going through the motions, a change of scenery can soften those edges. You’ll remember what it’s like to laugh, explore, and just exist side-by-side—not under pressure, but in peace.

Be intentional about your outing. Let your loved one know the goal is simply to enjoy the day together. It’s okay to put the heavy stuff aside for a moment. You may both be carrying a lot—but chances are, you both want this day to feel light.

So this summer, take the leap. Even if it’s just a blanket in the backyard or a trip to get ice cream, go somewhere. Not just for your loved one’s health, but for your own heart and your relationship.

You both deserve moments that feel normal—and even joyful—again.

Resources to Help You Plan Your Summer Outing:

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