embrace the great outdoors
Local communities encourage residents to
As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, Houstonians are eager to spend their free time outdoors, as being active outside is proven to improve one’s mood and outlook on life.
Research has shown that spending time outdoors can provide long-term health benefits for older adults, even helping to decrease the risk of conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Fortunately, many local senior living communities share this sentiment and have staff members who encourage this by offering a variety of outdoor activities.
Eagle’s Trace, a senior living community in Houston, encourages its residents to get active outdoors. Many of the community’s 113 resident-created groups and clubs embrace the outdoors. The community also offers a variety of activities that are tailored to meet the needs of its residents, with some offerings that require less physical activity, such as its Garden Group and Best Buds Rose Garden Group. Residents also can quench their thirst for knowledge in its Wild Things Nature Group, Eagle Eyes Bird Club and the Stargazers.
“Our beautifully landscaped, secure, 71-acre campus is a big reason why residents of Eagle’s Trace can enjoy Houston’s year-round mild weather,” said Pamela Burgeson, director of sales at Eagle’s Trace. “There’s literally something to do for everyone.”
For those who enjoy staying physically fit, the Walking Group meets once per week for a stroll around the campus or a nearby park or mall. Residents also pitch horseshoes, toss beanbags during a game of corn hole, and practice their golf strokes on the putting green. A stocked lake of nearly 9 acres provides a venue for fishing with fellow residents and grandchildren.
Eagle’s Trace also uses its campus grounds for barbecues and cookouts on the patio, as well as for
other celebrations, such as its 10th anniversary festivities and a “Go Houston Texans” pep rally.
“These fun activities encourage socialization and friendship,” Burgeson said.
Parkway Place, also in Houston, offers a variety of outdoor activities as well. These include a golfputting contest, a walk to the koi pond and garden (where several residents have planted flowers and vegetables), kite flying, a homecoming parade, and a Hawaiian luau.
“Our residents enjoy these offerings that allow them to be outside and enjoy the beautiful outdoors,” said Linda Fitzhugh, director of independent living at Parkway Place.
For more information about Eagle’s Trace, visit www.ericksonliving.com/ eagles-trace. For Parkway Place, visit www.buckner. org/retirement-services/ parkway-place.