SEARHC Health Promotion launches elder walking program at Sitka National Historical Park

The SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) Elder Physical Activity Program, in partnership with the Parks Prescription Program, will offer escorted hikes for elders from 2-3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays on the totem trails at Sitka National Historical Park.

The Park Prescription Program is a program offered by the Sitka National Historical Park and local health providers, who prescribe regular hikes at the park to their patients. Daily walks can reduce stress, increase energy and lower the risk for several other health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease and even some types of cancer.  Park Prescription Program participants can pick up a free punch card, which they get stamped each time they complete a walk at the park. A drawing for prizes takes place each quarter for those who complete Park Prescription Program punchcards.

“We will be meeting at the park on Tuesdays and Thursdays to walk walk the loop (or as far as elders feel comfortable) from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.,” SEARHC Health Educator Cory Welsh said. “We also will be providing walking sticks, and we encourage elders with canes, crutches and walkers to join as well.”

For more information, contact Cory Welsh at 966-8866.

SAIL Senior Hiking Club sets July hike for the morning of Wednesday, July 3

The Sitka office of Southeast Alaska Independent Living Inc. (SAIL) has announced its next Senior Hiking Club hike will be from 9:15-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 3. Seniors should meet at the Swan Lake Senior Center for transportation to the trailhead, which will be determined by the group on the day of the hike.

SAIL offers Senior Hiking Club events for those age 60 or older once a month, usually on the second or third Wednesday. There is a $5 fee, but nobody will be turned away because of finances. The hikes are open to people of all abilities and fitness levels. To learn more about the Senior Hiking Club, check out our January post introducing the club.

To learn more about the Senior Hiking Club, senior and adaptive kayaking trips, and and a variety of other outdoors skills and survival classes, contact SAIL ORCA (Outdoor Recreation and Community Access) program coordinator Nick Ponzetti at 747-6859.