Movement is essential for a healthy body and mind, and is especially effective when done outside. The effects of aging, disease, or injury can make doing so feel inaccessible, but with the right organization and efforts, regular outdoor exercise can remain a possibility.
At Institute on Aging, we help facilitate physical exercise through the services and programs offered at our Enrichment Center, and by working in tandem with local groups like Cycling Without Age, which is part of a worldwide movement to foster joy within communities through tandem bicycle rides.
Their mission echoes that of our own at Institute on Aging: enabling adults from all walks of life to enjoy activities as they age, and providing the opportunity to move through spaces that otherwise would be inaccessible.
Overcoming Barriers to Outdoor Access
IOA’s Enrichment Center in the beautiful Presidio offers a safe, supportive environment for those with cognitive and physical challenges, and an easy access point to enjoy the outdoors.
The Enrichment Center is part of Companioa, IOA’s comprehensive dementia care program, and offers an array of physically and mentally stimulating activities. These include games such as bowling, chess, painting and charades; nature excursions; and music concerts held in indoor and outdoor spaces. IOA helps Companioa members continue to pursue the interests they already love, and also to discover new ones.
Cycling Without Age is one of these new activities, and is part of the Enrichment Center’s ever-expanding activity programming. Cyclists and Companioa members are paired for weekly bike rides through the scenic local area, which provides a safe, stimulating means of regular outdoor access.
The Benefits of Being Outside
While many factors play a role in wellness, nothing is quite like the unique benefits of exposure to the natural world.
For those with conditions such as dementia or other cognitive challenges, a short walk or bike ride often results in more stable mood levels. Studies show regular greenspace access can help slow cognitive decline and support healthier sleeping patterns as well.
After all, there’s a reason people walking, running, and biking outside always seem to have a smile. Movement and sunlight trigger the natural release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter with cognitive benefits like better focus, motor control, and memory.
At the Enrichment Center, conveniently located on the grounds of Presidio, IOA’s Companioa program offers outdoor movement so members can stay active, independent, and in good health.
Solutions That Solve Common Obstacles
The effects of aging or other physical limitations can stop many from enjoying the outdoors and movement as they once did. This can diminish a person’s quality of life, as well as their ability to maintain independence for as long as possible.
At IOA, we acknowledge and respect these challenges while seeking and implementing solutions that put the natural world and local community back within reach. We have supported aging adults in reclaiming and expanding their world for decades, and will continue to do so into the future.
At the upcoming Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Grass Valley on February 13th, a short film produced by Cycling Without Aging will be screened, a beautiful representation of their mission and values in action.
*Image Credit:
Featured Image, Cycling Without Age
