CVPRD is working to create comfortable park environments for everyone in the Columbia Valley community. This is the beginning of a series of blog posts describing the benefits of parks for all age ranges within our community. This week, we’re diving into what kinds of benefits parks bring to elders. For the purposes of this blog post, we will be using the term “Elders” for anyone ages 55 and older.
One of the biggest benefits parks bring to everyone in the community is access to fresh air and beautiful nature. The following list includes park benefits that are specific to our community’s elders.
1. Parks boost self-esteem and mental health.
Since public parks are community-based spaces, they present many opportunities to connect with your neighbors, build new relationships, and strengthen existing ones. Becoming more connected with one’s community through public parks has been found to help improve self-esteem and mental health for elders. Whether it’s meeting up with old friends or making new ones, parks are the perfect place to gather and enjoy each other’s company.
2. Parks provide a place for light exercise.
Parks can come in various shapes and sizes that can be modified to include different features for everyone to enjoy. CVPRD is looking into including walking paths and trails in future park designs. Walking paths provide an excellent opportunity for elders to engage in some light physical activity. CVPRD is also researching ways to make paths ADA accessible to ensure everyone in the community is accommodated.
3. Parks can strengthen one’s sense of security.
When there are more members of the community out enjoying parks, then there are more eyes on the street. More eyes on the street can deflect any undesirable behavior or activities. Plus, knowing that CVPRD is working to make park spaces accessible and safe for everyone also helps increase the sense of security.
This blog post highlights the most significant benefits parks bring to elders. If you’d like to learn even more about the benefits parks have for elders, feel free to visit these links below:
What do Seniors Need in Parks?
Columbia Valley Park & Recreation District 