With longer days, warmer spring temperatures and flowers in bloom, now’s a great time to get outside. Whether you already enjoy going for walks or are looking to add walking to your outdoor activities, we’ll discuss some of the best senior-friendly parks in Chesterfield and Sunset Hills,as well as the benefits of visiting a park and taking a walk. Of course, some parks are better for older adults than others, which is why we’ll suggest a few of the best parks for seniors that are close to our senior living communities.
Benefits of Taking a Walk
Research has shown that walking has a lot of benefits for people of all ages, but it’s an especially good activity for seniors. In fact, being able to walk without help is one of the strongest indicators of whether someone can live independently. Older adults who exercise regularly are more likely to be able to walk without assistance and do things for themselves around the house. Going on regular walks can:
- Strengthen your muscles
- Help keep your weight steady
- Lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, colon cancer and diabetes
- Strengthen your bones, and prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis
- Help reduce blood pressure
- Improve your balance and coordination, and decrease your likelihood of falling
- Keep your joints flexible
- Increase your confidence and mood
- Improve your energy levels and increase your stamina
- Reduce anxiety or depression
Benefits of Visiting a Park
While walking is something you can do on a treadmill, community center or local indoor mall, getting out in nature offers added benefits:
- Increases vitamin D: A lack of vitamin D puts you at a greater risk for conditions like diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis and more. A walk in the park is a refreshing way to increase your vitamin D levels.
- Boosts your mood: Nature can have a calming and therapeutic effect, reducing your stress levels. Plus, walking can help stimulate a feel-good chemical called serotonin.
- Improves your sleep: The physical, emotional, and mental benefits you get from a walk in the park can also improve your sleep.
- Boosts your immune system: Spending time in nature can increase your white blood cell count and decrease your stress levels and blood pressure.
- Improves your memory: Spending time in nature has also been linked to an increase in memory and attention span. Heading to the park is also a quick way to refresh your mental health.
Get Ready to Walk
Walking for exercise is different than walking from the living room to the kitchen, which is why you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared. So after you’ve talked with your doctor to ensure walking is a suitable exercise, here are some things you may want:
- Walking shoes: Look for shoes that are comfortable and provide good support.
- Sunscreen: The summer sun can be particularly strong. You can start to get a sunburn in as little as 11 minutes.
- Hat: Protect your face, neck and ears by wearing a good sun hat – especially if you plan on walking during midday.
- Appropriate clothes: Choose items that are comfortable, appropriate for the temperature, and allow you to move freely.
- Bring a water bottle: Walking is exercise; as you exert yourself,you’re more likely to become dehydrated. Make sure you have some water with you.
Places to Walk in Chesterfield and Sunset Hills, MO.
While everyone has their preferred places to walk, these parks and trails are a few of our favorites:
- Central Park: This 55-acre park offers paved and well-maintained paths through a variety of sculpture gardens. It even has bridges to a gazebo in the middle of a small lake.
- Governor Bates Trail at Faust County Park: One of St. Louis County’s most unique natural attractions, this nearly 200-acre park is in the heart of Chesterfield. Governor Bates Trail goes through open fields, trees and historic sites.
- Minnie Ha Ha Park: Enjoy a walk among the trees and along the Meramec River. There’s even a scenic overlook where you can stop and take in the view.
- River’s Edge Park Loop: This peaceful 188-acre park is near the heart of Chesterfield Valley and has a trail to a beautiful lake surrounded by mature trees on every side.
- Watson Trail Park: This park offers tree-lined paths, including a route around a one-acre lake.
Discover Friendship and a Whole Lot More
If you’re like the residents of Friendship Village Chesterfield or Friendship Village Sunset Hills, you believe walking is an important part of staying active. One of the biggest benefits of living in one of our Independent Living communities is having friends and neighbors to walk with. To learn more about our faith-based, not-for-profit community by arranging a personal tour, contact us here. We’d also be happy to talk about the best nearby parks for seniors.