Many seniors in the present time are slowly engaging in various outdoor physical activities to keep them physically active and healthy. Hiking activities have been a famous outdoor activity that seniors found enjoyable and beneficial. Hiking activities for seniors can help seniors stay in shape and healthy for the longest possible time through physical exercise with a hint of adventure. Being seniors (advanced age, physical limitations, health problems, etc.) can’t be a barrier or a hindrance for them to do hiking activities. In fact, hiking can be done according to the hiker’s ability and level of experience.
Trails for Hiking in Seniors
Hiking can possibly be done almost anywhere. You can even hike around your neighborhood or even inside the mall. Hiking inside the mall will keep your mind off the time and distance you have covered, since you will enjoy looking at other people and window shopping. From your neighborhood, urban nature center, national parks, or even in the woods, seniors can still enjoy doing hiking adventures and keep their overall health as healthy as possible.
What Trail to Choose?
Choosing the trail for your hiking activity will greatly depend on your endurance, stamina, and your present physical condition. Since seniors are usually more vulnerable and less physically active than other people from younger age groups, seniors will usually find hiking in rugged trails to be very challenging. However, balance training, strengthening training, and other physical exercises can help seniors in preparing their body for rugged trails. Seniors should always choose trails that they can do. Hiking is not necessarily done in a fast pace, seniors can do it in a slow pace and they can even enjoy the scenery around them. It is recommended for seniors to do their hiking activities together with other people and not to do it alone, just in case of any emergencies.
Safety for Hiking in Seniors
As mentioned earlier, it is better for seniors to do hiking activities together with other people or in groups. Seniors have higher risks for accidents, injuries, or even disorientation, which can possibly happen during hiking activity. It will be a lot safer for seniors to do hiking activities in groups. However, for those seniors who do not have any companion during their hiking activities, it will be best if they do hiking activities in parks or somewhere with plenty of people. It is never advisable to go alone on a hiking trip to the woods or somewhere far with no people around.
