Walking is one of the healthiest things a person can do. The human body was designed for walking, almost as if the serotonin boost that a nice walk provides is our mind’s way of telling us to walk more.
Poets have written odes to walking for centuries, praising it for clearing the mind and restoring our mood. Walking is an excellent activity for seniors because it’s low-impact, social, and gets the whole body moving. It’s also an excellent way to explore your community, whether you walk circuits in a mall or prefer a nature stroll.
Before seniors begin a long walk, they should remember these three things.
Right Clothing for the Weather
Seniors need to be comfortable during an excursion and prepared for whatever the weather brings. It’s not easy to stop by home and pick up another layer in the middle of a walk.
Check the forecast before stepping outside and dress for warmth. You can always remove one or two layers during a walk if you feel hot, but if you feel cold or it’s rainy outside, you can’t put one on unless you have it with you.
Leading care homes like All Seniors Care Living Centres are located near scenic trails, so residents don’t need to travel far to have beautiful places to walk in nature. Just wear warm clothes when it’s chilly and light, maybe moisture-wicking layers when it’s warm.
Residents in care homes don’t need to look far to find a walking friend, and good company is always welcome.
Drinking Water Matters
The body needs about just under four litres of water every day, and it’s extra important for seniors getting exercise. Water can boost brain function, maintain urinary health, and improve digestion for seniors.
Drinking enough water also enhances the metabolism of seniors. However, older adults are less likely to realize they’re thirsty because the sensation of thirst diminishes as people age. Be mindful to
You don’t want to be thirsty out in a far-flung place without the ability to find a water fountain or buy something to drink. Carry a canteen or wattle bottle, or make sure you won’t have to struggle to find something to drink while you’re out.
Bathroom Breaks
It’s hard to relax during a walk when nature calls. You don’t want to be caught out on a remote trail without a bathroom to use, especially knowing that you’ll be drinking lots of water during your walk.
Try to go beforehand and be mindful to plan for a bathroom break or two when looking for somewhere to walk. Many public hiking grounds have a washroom at the trailhead or permit office, and there are many comfortable places to relieve yourself when walking through the city.
There are rough estimates of how many steps a person needs each day. Everybody’s body and physicality are different, but whatever the specific number is, nobody doubts the benefits of walking. Seniors just need to make sure they plan properly, and they’ll enjoy the boost to their physical and mental health.