Walking is a low-impact form of exercise that can provide numerous benefits for older adults. As we age, physical activity becomes increasingly important for maintaining our health and independence. Walking is an easy and accessible way for seniors to stay active and enjoy the many benefits that come with regular exercise. The health benefits associated with exercising become even more important as we age and regular, physical activity and exercise for those of retirement age help improve mental and physical health, which in turn helps maintain a sense of independence as you age. Walking is great for mental health in a variety of ways; regular walks can help reduce anxiety, improve mood and even enhance cognitive function. Walking can also be a great social activity for older adults further enhancing mental well-being. By regularly engaging in social activities, seniors stay more active and increase the quality of their retirement years. There are many ways to remain physically active during retirement and the team at award-winning and internationally renowned retirement community operator, LifeCare Residences, fully recognises the importance of staying physically active for the well-being of their residents.

Grove Place

Grove Place – a beautiful retirement community operated by LifeCare Residences – set in 27 acres of tranquil, Hampshire countryside provides access not only to spectacular grounds but also borders the beautiful New Forest – a haven for dog walkers and nature enthusiasts alike. Going for a gentle, or even a brisk walk, in nature has proven health benefits and residents at Grove Place can enjoy almost unlimited access to 27 acres of beautifully designed grounds – including a historical sunken garden, stunning meadows bursting with flowering plants, a woodland walk with approximately 875 trees and a bluebell garden. The award-winning retirement community provides the perfect balance of rural living with a social life on demand. The idyllic setting of Grove Place was a key driver in the decision for Barbara Wood to retire at Grove Place. Barbara comments, “At Grove Place, we have the peace and quiet of the countryside, but with all the amenities you could wish for on our doorstep.”

Battersea Place

Despite being situated in the heart of London, residents at the luxury retirement community Battersea Place can simply step over the road to enjoy the beauty and 200 acres of wide-open spaces of Battersea Park; whether for a brisk walk, or a gentle stroll in the lovely gardens. Residents also have unfettered access to Battersea Place’s landscaped courtyard gardens. The gardens prove to be a popular choice to enjoy an afternoon tipple when the weather starts getting warmer and with summer just around the corner, residents will be sure to be making use of the space. Moving into a retirement community such as Battersea Place could provide the perfect opportunity to foster positive, new beginnings. To make the most of the warmer weather, Battersea Place will be hosting an open day on Thursday 25^th May 2023, between 2-4pm. Visitors are invited to indulge in a quintessentially British offering of ‘cream tea’, followed by an opportunity to view a selection of the stylish apartments for sale, coupled with a tour of the exclusive facilities.  Guests will also be able to mingle with some of the residents who call Battersea Place ‘home’.

Somerleigh Court

Set in the tranquillity of beautiful, landscaped gardens within easy reach of the glorious Dorset countryside and the stunning Jurassic Coast, Somerleigh Court residents are on the doorstep of Borough Gardens, a beautiful 19^th-century park laid out to the design of William Goldring – who was the brain behind Kew Gardens. Residents can indulge in daily strolls in the gardens at their leisure, or enjoy the communal garden in Somerleigh Court which is conveniently overlooked by the garden room. Should residents want to make a day out of walking, Dorset is host to an array of walking trails, such as ‘Durdle Door’ – one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. It is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage site and there is the added bonus of easy access to the beach.

Access to green space

It is widely documented that access to green spaces can promote mental and physical health by providing psychological relaxation and stress alleviation, stimulating and fostering social cohesion and reducing feelings of loneliness which are very relevant predictors of health in the older population. Additionally, higher exposure to green space has been associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases such as diabetes. Furthermore, access to more green space provides an incentive for supporting physical activity, and remaining physically active is an important factor for maintaining health in older age.  Accessible natural areas are vital for mental health as we consider retirement. Many of the apartments at Grove Place, Battersea Place and Somerleigh Court have their own balconies and terraces which residents greatly enjoy. Whether it’s the 27 acres of land at Grove Place, Battersea Place with Battersea Park on the doorstep or Somerleigh Court – situated only a stone’s throw from Borough Gardens, there is no shortage of greenery for residents to enjoy. LifeCare Residences recognises the importance of sourcing premium locations as a main factor when choosing village sites.

Added health bonuses

Not only do all of the LifeCare Residences communities benefit from easy access to outside space, but they also offer a number of ways for residents to stay healthy and fit and the team fully recognises the importance of staying physically active for the wellbeing of their residents. Well-equipped indoor gyms and heated indoor swimming pools are available for residents’ use at both LifeCare Residences communities at Battersea Place in London, and Grove Place in Hampshire. Swimming is a highly effective full-body workout. It is also ideal for those who suffer from arthritis as the water supports the body’s weight which results in less impact on the joints, reducing the risk of pain. Residents at Battersea Place can also take part in onsite physical activities such as regular pilates, ballet, reiki, and meditation classes which are held in the gym. The team at Battersea Place has also recently introduced Chair Yoga for Beginners, which is already proving popular. This practice involves modified yoga moves with the support of a chair for the whole session. It’s an incredibly safe form of exercise and provides many benefits including pain relief, relaxation, improved mobility, and balance. Sara, the Chair Yoga facilitator adds, “It gives peace of mind, happiness, and stillness.” At Grove Place, residents benefit from the services of a dedicated fitness trainer who offers personal training and aqua aerobics. Somerleigh Court residents have the luxury of easily accessing the adult fitness equipment at the park as well as the four tennis courts which are open all year round in the charming Borough Gardens. All residents at the LifeCare Residences communities in London, Dorchester, and Hampshire benefit from the services of a lifestyle coordinator who organises local walking excursions, fitness classes and on-site activities and functions. In addition, they enjoy the added advantage of having access to fresh, delicious and nutritious food and are able to enjoy the delicious offerings from the on-site chef-led restaurants.

If you would like to learn more about our offering and how we can enhance the ‘every day’ please call 0800 009 6950. For those who are unable to visit in person, we are also able to offer virtual tours of our communities at your convenience.

LifeCare Residences.  We care about living life.