Frederick Considering Senior-focused Park

The city of Frederick’s Parks and Recreation Commission is recommending that a senior park be developed in the county to provide seniors with mental and physical health activities. As reported in The Washington Post:

Long, along with other members of the city of Frederick’s Parks and Recreation Commission, gave their support Dec. 9 for a new kind of park in the city that would provide mental and physical health activities for seniors.

Sue Paul, chief operating officer of Baker Rehab Group and an occupational therapist who specializes in dementia, is spearheading the effort to bring this type of park to Frederick.

It would have amenities both for older adults who want to keep their brains and bodies healthy, as well as caretakers or therapists looking for somewhere to take seniors with dementia. Paul calls it the SIMPLE Park, as it will include features for Sensory Integration, Movement, Proprioception, Learning and Exercise.

The park, which would be the first of its kind in Maryland, would be located in the Monocacy Village Park between East Street and Schifferstadt Boulevard. The article notes that the population in Frederick County 60 years and older is slated to double by 2030 to more  than 77,000 individuals.

For more information read the full article in The Washington Post.

MACo’s Winter Conference will offer a session entitled “All Work and No Play.. the Role and Importance of Your Health & Rec Department” on January 8, 2015. Panelists will provide an overview of a parks and recreation department, highlight the importance and role of Program Open Space, and discuss ongoing challenges, such as providing social venues for target populations like senior citizens.

Learn more about MACo’s Winter Conference:

Please note: The Hyatt is SOLD OUT of rooms during our conference. You can call 1-888-421-1442 to see if rooms have opened up. We also have a block at the nearby Holiday Inn Express. Our room rate there is $89 per night before tax – please call 410-221-9900 and ask for the Maryland Association of Counties rate.