Walking in the Sunshine: Enjoying the outdoors with your older companion in Pentyrch
Take a stroll in the sunshine with your older companion and enjoy the beauty of Pentyrch and the local area. Home Instead, a local provider of home care services in Cowbridge, shares some ideas for walking in the area that is perfect for older adults.
At Home Instead we believe staying active and enjoying the outdoors is essential for physical and mental well-being. For older adults, getting outside and exploring nature can be particularly beneficial, providing an opportunity to enjoy fresh air, soak up some Vitamin D, and connect with the natural world.
If you’re a Pentyrch local or are spending time with loved ones in Pentyrch and looking for some outdoor spots to explore with your older companion, we’ve listed some ideas for a range of abilities. From walking trails to nature reserves, plenty of beautiful spots in the area are perfect for older adults and their caregivers.
The Garth Loop
The Garth Loop or “The Garth” is a popular walking trail of 4.5 miles which you can start from Pentrych, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and beyond. The trail is well-maintained, and it is uphill although relatively easy, making it an ideal spot for older adults who are active. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful woodlands and open fields and have the opportunity to spot some of the local wildlife.
Forest Farm Country Park
Forest Farm Country Park is a short drive away and offers lots of large green space home to various wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and herons. The walking trails are well-maintained and offer plenty of opportunities to spot some of the local wildlife. Most of the park is accessible to wheelchair users including the bird hides, so a lovely place to take an older companion who enjoys bird watching. The park also has picnic areas and benches, making it a great spot to take a break and enjoy a snack.
Coed y Bedw, Pentyrch Woodland Walk
With limited parking, our local nature reserve and ancient woodland in Coed y Bedw is a perfect place for some ‘forest bathing’! From February to summer you can see forest wildflowers and it is also home to local wildlife. There are some steps, stiles, and trails that can be muddy.
Dyffryn Gardens
Dyffryn Gardens is a nearby local National Trust property, home to stunning gardens, fountains, and ponds. The walking trails are easy to navigate, there are step-free routes and the gardens offer plenty of benches and seating areas for older adults who need to take a break. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a day out, the beauty of nature and soak up some sunshine.
Castell Coch
The Castell Coch Trail is a fantastic option for older adults who are able and want a bit of a challenge. This moderate trail takes you up to the stunning Castell Coch, a medieval castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the castle itself is a fascinating piece of history.
Castell Coch is a stunning example of Welsh history and architecture. Our clients adore exploring the castle and learning more about the rich culture and heritage of the area. It’s a unique and exciting way to connect with the past and create new memories with loved ones.
“In the spring, this trail is filled with beautiful bluebells and is a favourite for many of our clients and their families.” Karen, Home Instead.
Garwnant
Garwnant is a 30-minute drive away from Pentyrch. The Garwnant centre is a great way to get outdoors if you or a loved one has limited mobility. With a range of signed trails, the Willow Walk is half a mile and is best for accessibility as it can cater for wheelchairs and buggies, with three accessible crossings over the river to bring you close to nature. The Animal Puzzle trail is also short and easy level and caters to any children in your group. The site has accessible toilets and a coffee shop with a cosy wood-burning stove on a colder day.
Some benefits of walking outdoors on the Digestive System:
Walking outside has many advantages for the digestive system and for the appetite. Digestion is stimulated by walking, which can lead to better digestion and the avoidance of problems like constipation. Walking causes your body to move, which stimulates the muscles in your digestive tract and encourages regular bowel motions. The digestive system and appetite may benefit from taking a walk outside in the fresh air to help alleviate stress. It can aid in promoting a healthy weight, improving blood flow, and stimulating digestion. Thus, if you’re seeking a quick, efficient strategy to boost your digestion and appetite, consider adopting daily outdoor walking.
Home Instead in Pentrych
At Home Instead our mission is to change the face of ageing. We offer a range of home care services in Pentrych and the local area including, those designed to support older adults with relationship-led care to maintain independence at home, for as long as possible.
Contact Home Instead today to learn more about our home care services and how we can support your loved one's independence and well-being.
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