When you are young, taking on the outdoors is a breeze. It only requires a little bravery and an open mind. But, some people begin to shy away from outdoor activities as they age.
The common misconception is that these activities are strenuous and dangerous. This could not be more inaccurate.
Spending time in nature is essential for your well-being. Making time for activities like hiking can provide mental, emotional, and physical support.
So, why should you take on hiking this summer? Below we share 3 big benefits of hiking.
Why Should Seniors Hike?
Starting a new hobby at your age can be intimidating, but hiking doesn’t need to be. Hiking is beneficial because it:
Improves Cognitive Skills
To stay healthy, you should increase neural activity in your brain.
Creating new memories and participating in new experiences is a great way to connect with nature while exposing yourself to new stimuli.
These new stimuli and boosted neural activity can contribute to strengthened cognitive skills.
Cognitive skills can fade with inactivity, making it even more troublesome to complete your daily tasks. Weak cognitive abilities can also increase mood instability and feelings of emotional distress.
Simply engaging with nature and exploring new trails can help ease some of your mental load, positively contributing to your overall well-being.
Strengthens Cardiovascular Health
Hikes are not exactly walks in the park. They can be slightly strenuous, especially when walking on natural trails or at a slight incline. The uneven terrain and consistent walking pace can increase your heart rate too.
Hiking for exercise is an excellent way to boost your cardiovascular health.
The increased blood flow can also boost your mood, making the trip outdoors even more pleasant.
A professional caretaker can help you identify a walking trail and speed that is most appropriate for you.
Increases Balance and Flexibility
Seniors often experience changes in their flexibility and sense of balance. If left unaddressed, these changes could worsen and lead to frequent falls and disorientation.
When hiking on terrain that’s even slightly inclined, your muscles, joints, feet, ankles, and core will be challenged.
The exercise will naturally encourage your body to maintain its balance. Frequent trips outdoors and participating in physical activities can also improve your flexibility.
How Can You Encourage Other Seniors To Hike?
When you first tell your peers that you want to go hiking, they might not respond enthusiastically. They might be overwhelmed by the idea of exercising outdoors. The idea of tackling a mountain trail or challenging route in the hot summer sun can overwhelm anyone, regardless of age or physical ability.
Before discussing the idea with your friends and loved ones, do thorough research.
Choose a trail that is appropriate for your physical abilities. Starting off simple, with a level trail, short distance, and taking a slow pace can pique the other seniors’ interest in the activity.
As you complete more accessible routes, you’ll also gain more confidence and skill, which can help you take on more challenging hiking trails.
With more people involved, you could feel more comfortable and social while getting the exercise you need.
As an added bonus, you could even end your hiking session with a picnic or trip to a local café.
How Can Superior Home Care Services Support Your Hiking Trip?
As experienced senior caregivers based in Chicago, we can provide valuable insight on which trails would be appropriate for your and your peers.
We have provided comprehensive companionship care and support to seniors for many years.
So, we know a thing or two about finding the right hiking trail and how to encourage seniors to participate in activities like this.
Get in touch with us today. We would love to support your summer fun!
