What is Purposeful Walking in Health and Social Care?

Purposeful walking is a term used to describe a specific type of walking activity. Unlike casual walking, purposeful walking has a clear objective. It is incorporated into care plans for its many health benefits.

This guide will explain in detail what purposeful walking is and why it is important.

The Concept of Purposeful Walking

Definition

Purposeful walking involves walking with a clear intention or goal. It could be a simple activity like walking to the shop or a more structured activity like a walking programme. The idea is that having a purpose makes the walk more engaging and beneficial.

Why Purposeful Walking is Important

Purposeful walking offers a range of physical and mental health benefits. When done regularly, it can improve overall well-being.

Physical Health Benefits

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health: Regular walking strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and improves circulation.
2. Enhances Muscular Fitness: Walking helps build and maintain muscle strength.
3. Aids Weight Control: It can help in managing weight when combined with a healthy diet.
4. Increases Energy Levels: Regular activity can reduce feelings of fatigue.
5. Improves Mobility and Flexibility: Purposeful walking helps keep joints active and can improve overall mobility.

Mental Health Benefits

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Walking can be a meditative activity that helps to lower cortisol levels.
2. Enhances Mood: Walking releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that make you feel good.
3. Improves Sleep: Regular physical activity can improve sleep patterns.
4. Boosts Cognitive Function: Walking has been shown to improve cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration.

Purposeful Walking in Care Plans

Individual Care Plans

Care plans in health and social care settings often include purposeful walking activities tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities. For example:

• Mobility Training: For individuals who need to improve or maintain their walking ability.
• Rehab Programmes: For those recovering from injuries or surgeries.
• Daily Living Activities: Encouraging individuals to walk for functional purposes like shopping or visiting friends can improve their engagement and independence.

Group Activities

Many care homes and community care settings organise group walks. These walks not only provide physical benefits but also offer social interaction, which is important for mental health.

Implementing Purposeful Walking

Setting Goals

Setting specific, achievable goals is really important. These goals give individuals a sense of purpose and direction.

1. Short-Term Goals: These could include walking a certain distance or duration each day.
2. Long-Term Goals: These might involve participating in events like charity walks or increasing the frequency and length of walks gradually.

Monitoring Progress

Regular monitoring helps to keep track of improvements and identify any issues. This can involve:

• Keeping a walking diary.
• Using fitness trackers.
• Regular health check-ups.

Encouraging Participation

Encouragement is key for adherence:

• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and recognition for achievements can be very motivating.
• Social Support: Group activities or walking with friends and family members can make the activity more enjoyable.

Issues and Potential Solutions

Physical Barriers

Some individuals may have physical limitations that make walking difficult. Solutions include:

• Adaptive Equipment: Using walking aids like canes or walkers.
• Supervised Walks: Having a staff member or carer present during walks.

Psychological Barriers

Mental health issues like depression can make it hard for some to engage in purposeful walking.

• Motivational Interviewing: This technique can help individuals find their own motivation for walking.
• Gradual Involvement: Starting with very short walks and gradually increasing the duration.

Environmental Barriers

Weather and lack of suitable walking environments can be barriers.

• Indoor Walking: Mall walks or indoor tracks can be alternatives.
• Weather-Appropriate Gear: Encouraging the use of suitable clothing and accessories for different weather conditions.

Case Studies

Case Study: Mary

Mary, 75, lives in a care home and has arthritis. Her care plan included purposeful walking to the garden every morning. Initially, this was challenging, but with a walking aid and encouragement from staff, she now looks forward to it. Her mobility and mood have significantly improved.

Case Study: John

John, 55, is recovering from knee surgery. His rehab plan included walking to the end of the driveway twice a day. Gradually, the distance was increased. This purposeful walking helped him regain strength and confidence in his mobility.

Final Thoughts

Purposeful walking is a beneficial activity tailored to the health and abilities of individuals in health and social care settings. It offers numerous physical and mental health benefits and can be incorporated into both individual and group care plans.

Setting achievable goals, monitoring progress, and providing encouragement are key to successful implementation. Despite potential barriers, with the right strategies, purposeful walking can actually enhance the quality of life for many individuals in health and social care.