Seniors in Deurne Walk Together for Health

Researchers from UAntwerpen and the Institute for Tropical Medicine in Belgium began a year-long study with seniors in Deurne, organizing weekly health walks through the Rivierenhof park. The “Mee op Stap” project combines movement, nature, and social interaction to combat loneliness and improve well-being. Participants complete a short warm-up before each walk and socialize afterward.

Hilda, a participant, says she enjoys walking but finds it more motivating to do so with others, appreciating the opportunity to meet new people and learn about the local park. Achilles, who stopped leaving his house after his partner’s death three years ago, now looks forward to the walks after discovering the project through a movement coach.

Researchers are tracking participants’ mental and physical health through diaries to determine which elements of the program—nature, exercise, or social contact—have the greatest impact. They plan to expand the project to other neighborhoods and cities if the results prove positive.