Seniors and the Outdoors in Colorado Springs

Seniors who were active in younger years, usually still desire to get outdoors. The outdoors, for seniors in Colorado Springs, means overcoming obstacles. Colorado is mountainous territory and for some seniors that means non access.

This guide has been researched and written with one thought in mind, access. If you're a care giver for Alzheimer's patients or enjoy the outdoors with your grandparents, these lakes, ponds and open space areas all have easy access to the great outdoors.

A special note to the care givers of Alzheimer's patients, thank you for your work. It is possible to get this segment of the senior population outdoors. It takes a little thought and your usual bag of patience, but it can be done. Every open space, lake or pond that is recommended in this guide can be accessed by seniors with mobility problems, just go slow.

Stratton Open Space Colorado Springs

Stratton open space is easily accessible from the parking lot. There are more than five miles of hiking trails. The hiking trails extend into the mountains and can present some difficulty. If your hiking partner has mobility issues, stay on the lower flat ground. There is a big trail in the flat area that is just about right for the hiker who can only hike a short distance. If you can encourage the senior hiker to hike two hundred yards and back to the car, it's a win. Sometimes your charges will like to stand in the middle of the field and stare at the wild that surrounds them.

This open space is not wheelchair friendly. Even though the beginning of the trail is fairly flat, it is still a rough dirt trail.

Cheyenne Canon Colorado Springs

Cheyenne Canon is not a good hiking park for seniors. It's an excellent short driving tour. The massive rock towers that stretch toward the sky like fingers on the end of a hand can bring a carload of seniors to absolute silence. Trees, hundreds of years old have sunk roots into the rocks and seem to survive with no visible nourishment. Toward the end of the drive, you will come to the base of Helen Hunt Falls. The falls provide a great opportunity to get out and stretch restless legs. If the seniors would like to hike a little, stay on the main road and walk downhill a way. Stay close to your hiker because the loose gravel can cause a spill.

Prospect Lake Colorado Springs

Prospect lake is located at the south end of Memorial Park. Map coordinates are West Union and Airport roads. The lake is wheelchair accessible. This is a warm water lake so it gets stocked early and often. Prospect lake really can't be beat as an outdoor space for seniors. It's easy to find and provide a relaxing day for everyone. A not about fishing with seniors, barbless hooks are easier to remove from human skin. You might lose a few fish but if you ever have to remove a hook from someone, you will appreciate the easy removal.

The whole point of going outside is to get away from the house and enjoy the outdoor experience. When you are with seniors, walk a little slower and take more breaks. If you accommodate their pace, they will enjoy your company and have a good time.

Sources
tipscoloradosprings
trailsandopenspaces.org/open-space/stratton.htm
springsgov.com/page.asp?navid=3038
springsgov.com/Page.asp?NavID=5884