The graying of America and outdoor recreation planning: Providing accessible outdoor recreation for older persons

Abstract

As baby boomers age, the population of the United States moves toward a higher proportion of elderly than ever before. These seniors retire earlier, have more discretionary income, active lifestyles and education. They also have a growing interest in fitness--challenging future outdoor recreation planning. Providers of public outdoor recreation, including the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, are under pressure to accommodate all population groups--including seniors. An emerging problem for recreation planners is how to address the special needs generated by this important demographic shift. To explore this issue, the author studied the retirement community Green Valley, Arizona's influence on the Forest Service's Madera Canyon Recreation Area. The study identified Madera Canyon as a model for successful recreation planning by enlisting volunteers, encouraging user participation, providing trails with different experiences, benches, wildlife viewing, and educational opportunities in natural areas, to meet senior's needs. The author provides planning guidelines.