Have you ever visited a care community—assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, adult day center, or even a school—and wondered,
why is everyone indoors?
I have.
Nearly 20 years ago, my best friend—my great-grandmother—was admitted to a skilled nursing facility. That moment changed the course of my life.
I didn't realize at the time how deeply this experience would shape me, and yes, it was traumatic.
The continuing care system I encountered was outdated, isolating, and, in many ways, inhumane. Tess was placed on the sixth floor, with no access to the outdoors.
The window in her room didn't even open.
In my professional career, I've encountered the same outdated care system. Despite two decades of experience and progress in other areas, I've seen firsthand how things have not improved—if anything, they are getting worse. This experience prompted me to return to school and pioneer a new branch of gerontology: Eco Gerontology.
Co-leading the change with the Care Outdoors Movement, we can collectively grow the emerging field of Eco Gerontology around the globe.
Together, we can reshape care and generate sustainable,
nature-connected environments for generations to come.
Does this resonate with you?
Have you seen similar challenges in care environments?
If you're ready to step outside the confines of 'business as usual' and plant the seeds of lasting change, join us in cultivating a future where Nature is central to care—for all ages, from schools and workplaces to towns and care communities.
What if, instead of isolation, there had been open doors leading to gardens, the sky, birdbaths and birdsong, and the peace, comfort, and connection of the Nature Experience?
What if Tess had been able to feel the warmth of the sun on her face, hear the birdsong, and breathe in fresh air as part of her everyday experience?
When she was admitted into skilled nursing, I was devastated.
I'll never forget the social worker who assured me, "She is here to live, not to die."
I still wonder what he meant by 'living'.
While some care communities, schools, and workplaces have outdoor spaces, they often remain empty. Around the world, people now spend up to 93% of their time indoors—a reality that not only harms our health and systems of care but also severs our connection to Nature.
My passion for Care Outdoors and Eco Gerontology is deeply personal. Someday, when I am in the care of others, I want to know they value daily moments outdoors as a fundamental part of healing, health and wellbeing—connecting with birdsong, trees, sky, sunshine, stars, and moon as essential care.
Imagine this:
What if we could collectively grow nature connectedness in the care sector
—among executives, CEOs, board members, residents, families, and entire communities? Schools?
The children of today, are the carers of tomorrow for people and Nature.
Imagine how different care communities could look, feel, and operate.
Care Outdoors Program, the only continuing education initiative growing the emerging field of Eco Gerontology.
Care Outdoors is more than a course—it's a movement.
Why Care Outdoors?
At the intersection of The Nature Experience, Care, Meaningful Engagement, and Wellbeing, the Care Outdoors Program is designed for professionals and organizations ready to lead the way in integrating Nature as our #1 Care Ally.
Whether you're an activity/recreational professional, therapist, care provider, or leader in aging services, Care Outdoors equips you with the tools and confidence to:
Share Care Outdoors with All Ages
Improve your health and wellbeing
Cultivate more meaningful and connected care environments for those you serve
What Makes Care Outdoors Unique?
✔ Pioneering a New Standard
Be at the forefront of the emerging field of Eco-Gerontology.
✔ Experiential Learning
Engage in hands-on, nature-inspired approaches that connect you deeply to the material.
✔ Leader Certification
Achieve credentials that position you as a champion of nature-based care.
✔ Community & Collaboration
Connect with an international cohort of changemakers and be part of a global movement.
2025: The Founders Year – Be a Trailblazer!
Let's Regenerate Care and Nurture the Soil for Planting Abundance ~
Join now to become part of the Founding Cohorts, shaping the future of Care Outdoors and Eco-Gerontology. Influence the program's direction, connect with fellow pioneers, and establish yourself as a leader in this emerging field.
Start Today with On-Demand Learning
Enroll in the On-Demand Care Outdoors Program and connect with the Care Outdoors Community Page and monthly All-Community Check-Ins.
Once enrolled, you have 6-months access to course learning modules!
Upcoming Cohorts:
Enroll by March 1st and enjoy $100 off
(Pay $276 instead of $376); use coupon code [BlueBird] at checkout.
To me, a lush carpet of pine needles or spongy grass is more welcome than the most luxurious Persian rug. – Helen Keller
Why Outdoor Engagement Matters
Research confirms that
Meaningful Outdoor Engagement,
for All Ages:
Reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation
Inspires awe, gratitude, and joy
Increases physical activity and social inclusion
Improves cognitive function and reduces stress
Strengthens immunity, digestion, sleep, and hydration
Enhances overall wellbeing and reduces pain
The Risks of Staying Indoors:
Extended Time Indoors =
Increases stress, depression, and sleep disruptions
Weakens immunity and energy levels
Leads to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Reduces Vitamin D and serotonin levels, impacting metabolism and bone health
Contributes to a sedentary lifestyle and associated health risks
6 Modules of Experiential Learning
✔ Module I: The Dire Need for Care Outdoors
✔ Module II: Reimagining Care: Our Bond with Nature
✔ Module III: Green Care Approaches
✔ Module IV: The Emerging Field of Eco-Gerontology
✔ Module V: Sensory Engagement with Nature & Removing Barriers
✔ Module VI: Growing Nature-Connected Programs & Community
#1 Course Outcome:
Gain expertise in transforming outdoor spaces into healing places and Grow Nature Connectedness. Learn to design programs that enhance health and wellbeing for all ages, including individuals with dementia, disabilities, and mobility impairments.
Choose Your Learning Path
Cohort Experience
Collaborative learning & networking
Accountability & motivation
Weekly 30-minute live check-ins
Daily access to the Care Outdoors Community Page
Available for $376
On-Demand Learning
Enroll anytime and learn at your own pace
Daily access to the Care Outdoors Community Page
Available for $449
Care Outdoors Learning Objectives
✔ Understand the Therapeutic Benefits of Outdoor Environments
– Learn how the Great Outdoors & Nature supports mental, physical, social, and environmental wellbeing.
✔ Design & Utilize Outdoor Spaces
– Identify key features that enhance therapeutic experiences and Nature Connectedness
✔ Grow Nature-Connected Programs & Communities
– Implement the emerging field of Eco-Gerontology.
✔ Nurture Meaningful Outdoor Experiences
– Develop evidence-based, person-centered approaches tailored to individuals and communities while nurturing Reciproca-Shared Care
Removing Barriers to Outdoor Engagement
Many individuals, especially older adults and those with dementia, disability and mobility impairments, face barriers to outdoor engagement. Care Outdoors provides strategies to remove these obstacles, ensuring equitable access to Nature and the Great Outdoors.
Become a Green Care Community Leader
Green Social Prescribing is gaining momentum globally. Care Outdoors uniquely positions you to lead the charge. Join us in pioneering science-based, nature-inspired care for all ages!
Be equipped to foster purpose, joy, and connection while preventing caregiver burnout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How flexible is the course in terms of time commitment?
The Care Outdoors Program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing participants to complete the modules at their own pace. While the course takes a minimum of five weeks, you can engage with the material at any time that suits your schedule.
Why is experiential learning important for Care Outdoors Training?
Experiential learning shifts the approach from passive consumption of information to active engagement. By directly experiencing the content, participants develop a deeper understanding and enhance their ability to apply the skills in real-world settings.
How do participants typically utilize the Care Outdoors Leadership Training certification?
The possibilities are endless! From spearheading dementia-friendly sensory gardens to enriching volunteer work at accessible nature retreats, Care Outdoors Leaders are making a difference across various sectors.
Check Out All the Goodness Adult Enrichment Centers is Growing! They are the first adult day healthcare organization in the United States to achieve a Care Outdoors Credential! Read More about their experience with Care Outdoors:
Questions?
Register for our next Live 'Explore Care Outdoors' Session
on March 5th
or
Send me a Direct Message! I welcome the opportunity to chat!
Thank YOU!!!
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