Spending time outdoors is part of Australia’s identity, and the average Australian is almost expected to love the outdoors and enjoy backyards, barbecues, and open-air sports. However, recent trends have found Australians are spending less time outside now more than ever before. The reasons behind this shift are multifaceted, involving urban development leading to shrinking backyards, the digital revolution increasing screen time, and the demands of modern work and family life leaving less time for outdoor recreation. Despite the well-documented benefits of spending time in nature, including improved mental health, physical well-being, and social cohesion, Aussies are finding it increasingly difficult to connect with the outdoor spaces that once defined their way of life.
The Decline in Outdoor Time
Shrinking Backyards
One of the most tangible signs of Australians’ decreasing engagement with the outdoors is the literal shrinking of backyards across the nation. Urban sprawl and the push for higher-density living have led to a significant reduction in outdoor space available to the average Australian household. New housing developments often prioritise the number of homes over the size of each property’s outdoor area, resulting in smaller gardens and less space for outdoor activities. This trend not only limits the opportunities for outdoor play and gardening but also impacts the cultural practices that have long defined the Australian way of life, such as backyard cricket and barbecues.
Increased Screen Time
Parallel to the physical constraints on outdoor activities, the digital age has ushered in a dramatic increase in screen time among Australians of all ages. Recent research has found that for every hour spent outdoors, Australians are spending over seven hours in front of screens, whether it be televisions, computers, or smartphones. This shift towards digital entertainment and away from physical outdoor activities is contributing to a range of health issues, including obesity, poor posture, and reduced social interaction, further eroding the traditional outdoor lifestyle.
Longer Working Hours
The balance between work and life is increasingly skewed, with many Australians finding it difficult to carve out time for outdoor recreation amid their busy schedules. This is compounded by the convenience of indoor entertainment versus organising outdoor activities, which at times can have its challenges.
Changing Perceptions of the Australian Lifestyle
Despite the strong cultural association with the outdoors, there is a growing disconnect between the perception of the Australian lifestyle and the reality of how Australians spend their time. The idea of a laid-back, outdoor-oriented life is increasingly at odds with the lived experience of many Australians, who find themselves spending more time indoors due to the factors mentioned above. This shift reflects broader societal changes, including urbanisation, technological advancements, and economic pressures.
Addressing these trends requires a concerted effort to prioritise outdoor spaces and activities, both at the individual and community levels, to ensure that the Australian love for the outdoors endures for future generations.
Encouraging Outdoor Time with Patio Covers
Another key contributor to Australia’s diminishing interest in the outdoors is our awareness of sun cancer and UV exposure, and that alone is fair enough. Roughly two in three Australians under the age of 70 will be diagnosed with skin cancer in some form, and now the public is armed with that statistic, people are wanting to spend as little time in the sun as possible. But, We’re here to tell you that you can still increase how much time you spend outdoors without increasing your UV exposure. You can have your cake and eat it too!
One innovative approach to encourage more outdoor time is the installation of patio covers. These structures offer a practical and attractive means to make outdoor spaces more inviting and usable throughout the year. A patio is the perfect solution for people who want to get out more, but aren’t keen on enduring the blistering sun.
The Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors
Before delving into the specifics of patio covers, it’s important to reiterate the benefits of spending time outdoors. Research consistently shows that outdoor activities can lead to significant health and well-being improvements, including reduced stress levels, enhanced mood, increased physical activity, and better overall mental health. Furthermore, outdoor time is crucial for children’s development, offering opportunities for physical play, creativity, and learning about the natural world. By finding ways to spend more time outside, Australians can tap into these benefits, enriching their lives and strengthening their connection to nature.
Patio Covers as a Solution
Patio covers mitigate a key deterrent to outdoor activity: the intense Australian sun. By offering shade and UV protection, they enable the enjoyment of outdoor spaces even in peak heat. Additionally, these covers shield from rain, broadening the usability of outdoor areas across various weather conditions. This adaptability encourages dining, playing, and relaxing outside.
As backyards shrink, the idea of a patio might seem impractical to homeowners wary of sacrificing limited green space. Yet, a patio can actually boost a backyard’s utility, providing a versatile area for activities. It can host a handball court, serve as an outdoor gym, or offer a serene spot for yoga. This not only maximises the use of every backyard inch but also enriches outdoor living, making it appealing year-round.
Creating Functional Outdoor Spaces
With the addition of a patio cover, even small backyards can become functional, targeted zones for a variety of activities. Here are some ways to maximise the utility and appeal of outdoor spaces:
- Dining Al Fresco: A patio cover creates the perfect environment for outdoor dining, away from the direct glare of the sun. It can accommodate everything from a simple family meal to larger gatherings, encouraging communal meals in the fresh air.
- Outdoor Living Rooms: By adding comfortable seating, lighting, and even outdoor rugs, homeowners can extend their living spaces into the outdoors, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
- Play Zones for Children: A shaded area can become a safe and comfortable space for children to play, encouraging physical activity and imaginative play away from screens.
- Gardening and Green Spaces: For those interested in gardening, a patio cover can provide a sheltered area to pot plants, start seedlings, or even set up a small greenhouse, fostering a connection with nature.
The decline in outdoor time among Australians is a complex issue, influenced by urban development, lifestyle changes, and the digital age. However, solutions like patio covers offer a way to address these challenges, making it easier and more appealing for people to spend time outside. By creating versatile, comfortable, and protected outdoor spaces, Australians can enjoy the health and well-being benefits of the great outdoors, reconnecting with nature and revitalising the outdoor lifestyle that is such a cherished part of the national identity.
SEQ Patios offers innovative patio solutions tailored to your space and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy spot for yoga, a vibrant area for family barbecues, or a versatile outdoor gym, we’ve got you covered—literally. Our patio covers protect against the harsh Australian sun and rain, making your outdoor space inviting all year round. Contact SEQ Patios today for a consultation and discover how we can bring your outdoor vision to life.
