Walking Path Open In New Lebanon

A 700 foot long  (1/8 mile) walking path is now available on the grounds of Immaculate Conception Church at 732 U.S. Route 20 in New Lebanon. Everyone is welcome to use the path during daylight hours and in reasonably good weather. In addition, there is a connecting nature trail that provides a lovely walk through the evergreens adjoining the path. The parish Seniors’ Ministry has made this walking path a reality, thanks to the generosity of benefactors and with the able assistance of many junior and senior high school students. A small parking area on the same side of U.S. Route 20 is planned for this season.
The outdoor path is part of a broader program which encourages seniors to remain active and moving for good health and greater independence, especially considering the frequency and severity of fall related injuries among older people. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 persons, age 65 and older, will fall in a year, and falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among the elderly. (See http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/adultfalls.html.)
In a recent review of 54 previous fall prevention studies, which included more than 26,000 people, three interventions were found to be effective in decreasing the overall rate of falls. These are interventions that can be carried out through local community resources, namely:
• prescribing vitamin D (Doctors’ offices);
• home safety reviews and modifications;
• exercises for strength and improved balance.
Given the importance of improving balance and leg strength, walking is a valuable exercise for all who can safely engage in the activity.