Eat well, move daily, hydrate often, sleep lots, love your body repeat this tomorrow is a health mantra used by many, but what does this really mean? Is exercising all about hitting the gym, pushing weights, and running the treadmill? Exercise is particularly important, but it is easy to forget that “exercise” doesn’t always mean spending thirty minutes on the treadmill, lifting weights or having a Zumba class twice a week.

One year into the Covid-19 pandemic, people are still spending most of the time indoors, but now things are opening – albeit slowly and systematically. And while many would still be very skeptical in renewing their gym subscription, nature could be a good alternative to that trip to the gym especially for seniors. Exercise is important for everyone, and walking is one of the best types of exercise that seniors can do. Walking is so calming that most people can do it, regardless of their current level of fitness. It does not wear out the joints, which is important for seniors with arthritis, but it does strengthen important muscles in the legs, hips, and abdominals.

Seniors who walk daily are less susceptible to health problems like heart disease, they are less likely to suffer falls, and they are more likely to maintain their independence and happiness as time goes on. It is important to note that seniors should consult with their doctor or health professional if they have health conditions or have not been active for a while. And make sure they have everything they need, especially a comfortable pair of shoes.

Spending time in woods can bring a feeling of peace and restoration into a person’s life, regardless of age. Nature is a place where we can breathe easier and just relax. And this is true for seniors, as well. And, because of the natural process of aging and slowing down, seniors are often constrained to their home or place of residence, without much change of venue. Nature offers a place where seniors can be active and enjoy in its beauty, a place with different and new things to see every day. Nature also provides sensory stimulation and a new outlet for socialization among other nature-lovers.

Besides the obvious benefits that come from a walk in the park, nature is known to result in other health benefits. For instance, there have been studies that show that seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s can have reduced symptoms after spending time in the greens. With nature and sunshine also comes an increase in our Vitamin D intake, which helps stabilize and protect our immune systems.

Seniors who are not getting out much these days may not only be experiencing serious cabin fevers, but also may be getting quite a bit less exercise without the motivation of a changing outdoor scene. Their level of physical activity may be steadily declining without them noticing.

Spending time in nature, however, will help take our minds off our anxieties and other life issues and fears. For Seniors, spending time outside right now is particularly challenging especially to those who live in senior living communities. With most facilities operating on strict Covid protocols, going out for a walk in a park is discouraged since it may pose a risk to other residents in the facility. Even seniors who live at home may remain cooped up, unsure of whether it is safe to go out and how they can protect themselves even after getting vaccinated.

As a caregiver, you can encourage your senior loved ones who live at home to get out as they can while practicing safe physical distancing, accompany your loved one to a park, forest preserve, or beach. Walking with a destination in mind can be more fun if you are going somewhere specific. You can pick a destination that your senior would like to visit (or ask them to come up with a few places they would like to go within walking distance). A few ideas might include a cafe, a farmer’s market, or a nearby park. The walk will feel like nothing when there is a basket of fresh produce or a hot cup of tea waiting at the end of it!

Whether you are taking care of your aging parent or are a professional caregiver, it is important to encourage seniors to walk on a regular basis. Taking walks day in and day out can get tedious, though, no matter how seriously a senior takes their exercise. It is important to find ways to mix it up and keep things fun, fresh, and exciting when you are walking with seniors.