Useful Hiking Tips for Seniors
Hiking isn’t only for young people. It’s also for the young at heart. It doesn’t matter how old you are. If you’re eager to exercise and explore the outdoors, hiking is perfect for you. Here are some tips to consider if you wish to start hiking at your age.
Check with your doctor first
While hiking is good for the heart, you can’t just do it if you’re a senior. You must check with your doctor first to avoid potential health risks. Not everyone is built for this activity. Remember that you will be outdoors and have to survive some harsh weather conditions. You can go for a walk, but only on flat surfaces and for a limited time. Hiking long distances in difficult terrains might lead to health issues.
Prepare what you need
You should have everything with you before leaving home. If you need medications, bring them. You might be in the middle of nowhere when you start to feel some symptoms. You can’t receive immediate medical attention and your first-aid kit will keep you alive. You should also have extra clothes, bottled water and some snacks.
Check the weather
Like any other hiker, you have to check the weather first before heading out. You can’t be under immense heat or you will suffer from heat stroke. You also don’t want to hike when it’s raining heavily or there’s an incoming storm. You might be trapped in a dense forest for days without getting help from anyone.
Wear appropriate clothing
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable. Use light clothing that still offers protection. You can wear boots or hiking shoes. It depends on where you intend to hike and for how long. Some shoes might protect you from whatever is on the ground, but are too heavy. You will exert energy just walking in them.
Tell someone where you intend to hike
You should inform the people you know that you plan to hike. You must also tell them where you’re heading and what route you plan to take. Leave your contact information. You may also share your location with them. If something wrong happens and you can’t be contacted, these people know where to find you.
Use a walking stick
You might feel confident that you can walk with ease during the hike. At first, you’re still filled with energy and you don’t mind the distance. Eventually, you can barely move your legs. Hence, it helps if you bring a walking stick. It helps you move despite your condition or at least until you reach a safe place.
Choose the right trail
Again, you can’t be overconfident and pretend that you can survive anything. Some trails might look easy, but they’re not. You will also be with experienced individuals. Don’t compare yourself to them or believe that things will go as planned. Check the right trail and start with easy options before going more difficult.
With these tips, your hiking experience becomes memorable. You can also do more in the future.
Photo Attribution:
1st and featured image from https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2302/2659/files/qscx_600x600.jpg?v=1628838748
2nd image from https://retirementtipsandtricks.com/is-hiking-good-for-seniors/
