Journey Walk
Shared by Katie White
TypePhysical
Level of careAssisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Skilled Nursing
Printables2 handouts
Each month, based on the theme, there will be 10 different posters around the community with theme based facts and a challenge section with simple, Wheelchair friendly, exercises to promote mobility, balance, and core strength. The activity is meant to promote indoor walking clubs being self guided and engaging. With an optional True and False quiz at the end that can then be submitted for the residents name to go into a monthly drawing for a prize.
Activity Overview
Activity Title: Journey Walk
Brief Overview: Each month, this self-guided activity encourages residents to walk a designated indoor path. Along the way, they will find 10 themed posters featuring interesting facts and a "Challenge" section with a simple, wheelchair-friendly exercise. The goal is to promote mobility, balance, and core strength in an engaging way. An optional True/False quiz, based on the poster facts, can be completed at the end for a chance to win a monthly prize.
Level of Care: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Skilled Nursing
Activity Type: Physical
Ideal Months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Purpose of the Activity
The Journey Walk is designed to be more than just a walk down the hall. Its purpose is to provide a multi-faceted experience that benefits residents in several ways:
1. Physical Health: Encourages regular, gentle movement, which helps maintain mobility, improve circulation, support balance, and build core strength. The exercises are designed to be safe and accessible for all ability levels.
2. Cognitive Stimulation: The themed facts provide new information, sparking curiosity and discussion. The optional True/False quiz challenges memory and comprehension skills.
3. Social Engagement: While the walk can be done alone, it naturally encourages residents to walk with friends, partners, or staff, turning a simple physical activity into a social outing.
4. Sense of Accomplishment: Completing the walk and the quiz provides a feeling of achievement. The monthly prize drawing adds an element of fun and anticipation.
Materials Needed
10 Poster Boards or large sheets of paper
Printer with paper and ink
Computer for researching facts and finding exercise illustrations
Markers or pens for poster creation
Laminator and laminating sheets (recommended for durability)
10 poster stands, wall-safe tape, or easels for display
A small table for the "Finish Line" station
A container for quiz submissions (e.g., a decorative box with a slot)
A cup or holder for pens/pencils
Copies of the monthly True/False quiz sheet
A small monthly prize (e.g., a gift card to the community bistro, a basket of treats, nice toiletries)
Inside the full activity guide
- Activity Guide: Journey Walk
- Setup Instructions
- Step-by-Step Guidance
- Tips for Engagement
- Optional Variations
- Activity Logistics
- Notes for Adapting the Activity
- 2 printable handouts
