Active Aging

2 ACTIVE AGING WEEK | OCTOBER 4–11, 2021 Enjoying Nature's Playground BY TRINA REHBERG BOYKO I f you want to live a more active life, everything you need to get moving is just outside your door. Manitoba is full of opportunities to connect with nature while benefiting your health. Aside from the positive impact physical activity has on your health—like reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke, improving your blood pressure, circulation and cholesterol levels, and getting those feel-good endorphins going—spending time outside has its upsides, too. Being in nature can ease stress and anxiety, brighten your mood and help you get your daily dose of vitamin D, which we get from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is necessary for our bodies to absorb calcium, while lowering risks of certain diseases. It's also a lot of fun. Just ask Karyn Heidrick, coordinator at Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM). "Our participants love getting outside and taking part in different activities," she says. While outdoor recreation has always been a focus at AAIM, it's become especially important after a difficult year for many older adults. "With the pandemic leading to social isolation and that sometimes leading to inactivity, it starts to affect our health and well-being," Heidrick explains. "We want to do something positive and healthy." That AAIM has, organizing activities like the Manitoba 55+ Games. Instead of hosting a week of games as usual, the 55+ Games went virtual this year and were stretched through the summer to keep in line with COVID-19 restrictions. By doing so, participants could note their own activities and submit them to AAIM. "Our Games are held in the summer, but we encourage people to participate in the activities throughout the year," Heidrick says. In the fall, activities like cycling, golf, bocce ball, horseshoes, pickleball, badminton and tennis are options to get outside and moving. During winter, you might want to venture into snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or maybe even build a snow fort with the grandkids. Still, don't feel you have to take on more than you're comfortable with. "Do as much or as little as you can," Heidrick advises. Walking is still one of the best activities for older adults, she adds, and it can be done in any season. It's low impact and you can go at your own pace or walk with a friend. Don't have a walking partner or someone to participate in activities with? AAIM has a whole network of people who want to get active and connect with others looking to do the same. Ready, Set, Go Ready to get out and move? Be sure to prep for weather and safety (and to consult with your doctor before you take on a new exercise routine). On a fall or winter day, you'll want to dress in layers that will keep you warm and that can be removed if you feel yourself getting too toasty. Windbreakers are great in a cool, fall breeze, while jackets with thermal insulation will trap your body heat when the temperature drops. Wear proper footwear, especially those with proper soles (an aggressive tread pattern works best) if the ground is slippery or sloped. Urban poles can give you extra stability, if walking is your activity of choice. And don't forget the sunscreen! The sun may not be as harsh in the fall and winter, but you should still practice sun safety. Apply a sunscreen with a high SPF (and reapply it every two hours) and don't forget a hat for extra sun protection—or a helmet, if the activity calls for it. It's important to keep active, but it's also important to stay safe. Upcoming Opportunities There's always something happening at AAIM. On Oct. 6, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., AAIM is hosting A Walk in the Park—a free event at Kildonan Park, featuring age-friendly activities and demonstrations. Try out some of the outdoor games that can be found in the Manitoba 55+ Games and learn something new in one of the brief educational sessions. Future opportunities can be found at activeaging.mb.ca or by calling 204-632- 3947. Get out, get active and enjoy nature's playground, right here in Manitoba. "Our participants love getting outside and taking part in different activities." Going for a brisk walk at a nearby park is beneficial to both the body and mind. - photo courtesy of Active Aging In Manitoba

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