Imagine a light morning breeze, the soft crunch of leaves underfoot, sunshine filtering through towering trees, accompanied by a gentle background of laughter and conversation with friends. For many seniors, hiking isn’t just about enjoying the great outdoors – it’s a powerful way to stay physically and mentally healthy. A growing body of credible research shows regular hiking can reduce the risk of heart disease, improve balance and even slow cognitive decline. Butterfield’s residents and Carriage Club members are happily proving that the trail to well-being can be as fun as it is beneficial.
The Science Behind the Steps
Studies published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine reveal that seniors who hike regularly can lower their risk of heart disease by up to 35%. Hikers can potentially improve their balance by 21%, significantly reducing the likelihood of falls – the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations and ER visits for adults aged 65 and older. And, Harvard Medical School research indicates hiking can boost memory by 20%, thanks to increased blood flow to the brain.
Hiking offers physical benefits that extend beyond the merits of traditional walking. Natural terrain variations help strengthen muscles, improve bone density and enhance joint flexibility – all of which can help maintain mobility as we age. According to the Mayo Clinic, 30-minute hikes can potentially lower systolic blood pressure by four to ten points and diastolic by five to eight points, making hiking a worthwhile habit to create and sustain.
Butterfield resident Mike Wavering is a frequent participant in the BTV hiking program. “I like walking and being outdoors, and it helps me physically to work out the stiffness I experience from sitting around. I would encourage anyone to try it,” he said.
More Than Just a Walk in the Woods
Beyond the physical perks, hiking fosters a sense of connection with nature and other people. Studies show seniors who hike in groups are 30% more likely to maintain an active lifestyle long-term. As a social activity, hiking has the power to reduce feelings of loneliness, and time spent in nature has been linked to a 25% decrease in depression rates.
Frequent Butterfield hiker Jerilyn Nicholson
agrees with the social benefits and value of immersion in nature. She said, “I have always enjoyed hiking and the inevitable change of scenery that goes with it. My husband and I have discovered beautiful places we didn’t know existed, so my knowledge of Northwest Arkansas and even Oklahoma has expanded. It is a great social occasion as we visit with others on the bus, along the trails and while enjoying lunch. Hiking is great exercise, but our Director of Fitness and Wellness Jennifer Neill always respects our differences in abilities and plans hikes accordingly. It’s not a competition.”
Whether exploring scenic trails or trekking through local parks, hiking offers seniors a simple, effective way to stay fit, sharp and engaged. Lace up your walking shoes – BTV is committed to taking an outdoor path to better health!
