The Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation is giving people with dementia, and their caretakers, the chance to safely enjoy the outdoors through their interpretive “Idlewild Health Walks”. Reno Public Radio’s Marcus Lavergne has more.
Studies show that consistent routines like going to the park can help those suffering from dementia find a sense of independence.
Belen Figueroa is a volunteer with the program.
“It’s generally just healthy to get out and walk around and explore the area but specifically with people living with dementia it’s very good to become repeatedly familiar with an area like a nice big park like Idlewild.
“Cues” or regular symbols like familiar trees or paths can help participants avoid confusion.
The program is a collaboration among several organizations, including the parks foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the Sanford Center for Aging at UNR.
The health walks start at 10 am every other Tuesday from the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation Office in Idlewild. Learn more.
