Work

“Like a mental shower”: understanding walking in nature as a mobile therapeutic landscape among older adults

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Walking in nature contributes to older adults’ well-being, yet policy and spatial planning often overlook older adults’ sensory experiences and needs in nature. Using the therapeutic landscape framework, this study explores how walking becomes a multisensory and emotionally resonant practice for older people. Drawing on focus groups with older adults aged 65–80 in Sweden and Italy, we analyse everyday and extraordinary walking experiences. Findings show that walking supports routines, social bonding, and mindfulness, while also facilitating reflection and intergenerational connection in scenic settings. We advocate for planning approaches that address and integrate older adults’ multisensory experiences, recognising walking as a therapeutic engagement with nature. The study contributes to health geography by foregrounding older adults’ lived experiences of walking and supporting age-friendly planning.

Source: Journal of Environmental Planning and Management

DOI: 10.1080/09640568.2026.2624616

Authors: Sandra Wall-Reinius, Simon Strömqvist

Institution: Mid Sweden University

Language: English

Topic: Urban Green Space and Health

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Familjen Kamprads Stiftelse