Since 1963, the month of May has been dedicated to celebrating the contributions of older Americans in the United States and raising awareness about the issues that affect the older population. This observance was initiated by President John F. Kennedy after a meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens, an organization that advocated for older Americans during a time when there were few programs available that addressed their concerns. The 2016 theme for Older Americans Month is “Blaze a Trail,” and older adults in Cobb County have a chance to do just that this spring. Cobb Senior Services has partnered with Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield National Park and Kennesaw Mountain Trail Club to hold a series of National Park Field Days. During these events, seniors can learn about the park’s history and trails, participate in exercises with a professional YMCA fitness instructor, and enjoy a guided hike through the park. The National Park Field Days include transportation to and from the park and a fitness package to use while you are there. This is an excellent opportunity to engage in physical activity and to enjoy nature as well.
Physical activity alone has been described by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as the most important thing you can do for your health. Adults 65 and older who are generally fit and have no limiting health conditions are recommended to participate in 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Due to urbanization and decreasing access to natural environments, the focus of this type of activity has shifted indoors to gyms. However, researchers have begun to explore the idea that exercise in nature may provide additional benefits. Recent studies have found that outdoor activity can increase enjoyment and frequency of exercise, induce greater feelings of revitalization, improve self-esteem, and decrease negative emotions. This spring, celebrate Older Americans Month with Cobb Senior Services and learn how the great outdoors can be used as a resource to enhance your health and wellness – come “Blaze a Trail” at Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield National Park.
Experience all Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park has to offer on one of these fun excursions! Tour the Visitor Center, see artifacts in the museum and walk a trail. We’ll engage in some light warm-up exercises with the YMCA before we head out on a guided hike. You can choose either 1.3 miles or a shorter .6 mile hike. Transportation and a boxed lunch will be provided. Let’s hit the trail…these boots were made for walking! To register for a hike, call the following Senior Centers:
Tuesday, May 10
East Cobb Senior Center, 770-509-4900
Thursday, May 12
West Cobb Senior Center, 770-528-8200
North Cobb Senior Center, 770-975-7740
Tuesday, May 17
Freeman Poole Senior Center, 770-801-3400
Senior Wellness Center, 770-528-5355.
Please call the centers for more information. For more information check out these sites: cobbseniors.org or www.facebook.com/CobbSeniors.
