Henry David Thoreau once said, "We can never have enough of nature." That statement has more truth to it than perhaps he even realized, particularly for seniors, as the health benefits of spending time in nature are vast. In fact, according to the UC Berkley Greater Good Science Center, over 100 studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve quality of life as you age by improving memory, reducing the risk of depression, lowering blood pressure and stress levels, increasing energy, boosting the immune system, and improving cardiovascular health.  

Here in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, retirees have ample opportunity to enjoy nature's benefits. To start, check out the Roanoke- Salem Region's many fine parks.

Parks in the Roanoke – Salem Region

From parks to nature reserves to greenways to gardens to trails and more, however, you like to spend time connecting with nature, you can find it in the Roanoke – Salem Region. Here are some of our favorite options:

• Mill Mountain Park features 568 acres that include a wildflower garden, mountain overlooks, hiking trails, and of course, the Roanoke Star, which towers 1,045 feet above the city.
• Carvin's Cove Natural Reserve features 12,000 acres that include forests, a 630-acre reservoir with boating and fishing, and 60 miles of trails, among the largest conservation easement property in the state's history.
• Jae Valley Park is great for birdwatching on foot or from a kayak or canoe.
• Hahn Horticulture Garden is at nearby Virginia Tech and features indoor and outdoor gardens in all seasons.  ‍
• Washington Park and Fallon Park feature public pools for those who like swimming. ‍
• Roanoke River Greenway Trail is a 13.5-mile paved trail that is also wheelchair accessible and great for leashed pets.  ‍
• Carvin's Cove Reservoir Trail is a walking trail that spans 4.5 miles through natural areas. ‍
• Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail features a 3.8-mile trail that follows a creek and ends at the Hanging Rock Battlefield monument. 

Retirement in the Roanoke – Salem Region at Friendship Retirement Community

At Friendship Retirement Community, we empower retirees to advance their own health and well-being by creating vibrant lifestyles that inspire creativity, support choice, protect dignity, and celebrate experience. We feature three campuses in the Roanoke – Salem Region offering a range of services from independent and assisted living to memory care and more. In addition, we help residents to live well during retirement in the Roanoke – Salem Region with the following:

• Freedom from the burdens of home upkeep with residence and yard maintenance and group transportation provided.
• Beautiful grounds with stunning views of the Blue Ridge mountains and spacious accommodations with several different floor plans from which to choose.
• A location just minutes away from the Roanoke – Salem Region’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Conveniences including an onsite beauty salon.
• A full calendar of social events, activities, and outings, as well as clubs, classes, guest speakers, discussions on current events, and volunteer opportunities.  
• A state-of-the-art fitness center with a pool, fitness programs, health and well-being services, and chef-inspired menus prepared in collaboration with a nutritionist or dietician.
• Home care services that help keep you independent for as long as possible, award-winning therapy services, and multiple levels of care on the same campus.