Seniors Trekking in Outdoor Places (STOP): An exploration of the effects of physical activity, social connection, and time outdoors on Vermont's older adults
Conference Year
January 2022
Abstract
Physical inactivity is associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease, decreased physical function and reduced quality of life. Adults over 65 are especially vulnerable as reduced muscular fitness and cardiovascular function associated with increasing age dovetail with isolation and other barriers to physical activity. Trekking is like hiking, with hand-held poles that engage the arms and increase the base of support. Trekking with others offers social support, safety, and an opportunity for outdoor physical activity. I have proposed a program for older adults to evaluate the impact of trekking with peers on indicators of physical function and quality of life.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Elizabeth Harding
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Program/Major
Exercise Science
Second Program/Major
Psychological Science
Primary Research Category
Health Sciences
Secondary Research Category
Social Sciences
Seniors Trekking in Outdoor Places (STOP): An exploration of the effects of physical activity, social connection, and time outdoors on Vermont's older adults
Physical inactivity is associated with increased rates of cardiovascular disease, decreased physical function and reduced quality of life. Adults over 65 are especially vulnerable as reduced muscular fitness and cardiovascular function associated with increasing age dovetail with isolation and other barriers to physical activity. Trekking is like hiking, with hand-held poles that engage the arms and increase the base of support. Trekking with others offers social support, safety, and an opportunity for outdoor physical activity. I have proposed a program for older adults to evaluate the impact of trekking with peers on indicators of physical function and quality of life.