Senior living in Athens, GA, means excellent access to outdoor destinations and activities. They include Sandy Creek Nature Center and its trails, the Oconee Rivers Greenway trail system, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and Memorial and Dudley Parks.

A study by Kolster et al., published in Geriatric Nursing, found that nature remains important in later life. In fact, the importance may even increase with age.

There’s no denying that getting outside to feel the sun on your skin, see the beautiful sights, and breathe the clean air can do wonders for your health. But not every location is ideal for these things.

Thankfully, senior living in Athens, GA, can provide you with fantastic access to outdoor destinations.

Is Athens, GA, a Good Destination for Retirees?

Yes, Athens, GA, is a very good destination for retirees! This is because it has a great blend of:

Cultural vibrancy
Affordable living
Quality healthcare access

Older adults can enjoy not only a lively arts scene and community festivals, but also historic charm and a moderate climate. There’s also a solid medical infrastructure and several hospitals in the region, so you’re never far from quality care.

What’s also outstanding is that the University of Georgia is within proximity, offering the following to seniors:

Lifelong learning opportunities
Concerts
Museums
Gardens
Social groups

Rest assured that, despite the vibrant environment, you can still find plenty of quiet neighborhoods. The senior living environment in Athens is top-quality!

What Are Some Outdoor Activities for Seniors?

Now, we may have piqued your interest in this city, and you may be considering it for retirement. So, what outdoor destinations in Athens, GA, for seniors are available?

Sandy Creek Nature Center and Trails

If you’re looking for parks and paths for older adults, but don’t want to stray too far from home, then Sandy Creek Nature Center is where you need to go. It’s a beautiful and accessible outdoor destination that spreads across 225 acres of wooded wetlands, and it has over 4 miles of walking trails. Even better is that there’s an ADA-accessible interpretive trail that’s gentle on the joints, so you don’t have to overexert yourself.

Not only can you take relaxed strolls while birdwatching, but you can also view educational exhibits and spend time in wildlife observation areas. Trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Oconee Rivers Greenway Trail System

The Oconee Rivers Greenway is one of the top area attractions and definitely tops our list of nearby outdoor areas for retirement. It consists of a network of paved, multi-use paths that take you along scenic river corridors. It connects the following throughout Athens:

Parks
Neighborhoods
Recreation spots

There are around 8 miles of concrete trails and 3+ miles of natural surface paths. Whichever you choose, you’ll benefit from gorgeous views of the North Oconee River. In particular, the segments near Dudley Park and Sandy Creek are perfect for morning or sunset strolls.

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia consists of 323 acres and has:

Themed gardens
Quiet trails
Shaded walking paths

It’s located next to the Middle Oconee River, making it a beautiful destination. You can take small walks surrounded by flowering plants, artistic landscapes, and benches for resting.

The botanical garden also hosts events and educational programs throughout the year, so keep your eyes peeled for anything of interest.

Memorial and Dudley Parks

For more local outdoor access for seniors and venues that are family-friendly, try Memorial Park and Dudley Park. There’s easy access to nature without strenuous hiking, so it’s easy to bring the entire family along.

Memorial Park covers 72 acres and has the Birchmore Trail, which is short and accessible. There are also picnic areas, which enable you and your loved ones to walk around, birdwatch, and then sit down to rest and eat whenever you want.

Dudley Park connects to trail networks and open fields, making it perfect for:

Light strolls
Picnics
Fishing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is the Best Area To Live in Athens, GA?

The best area to live in Athens, GA, for seniors will depend on what you value most in retirement.

For example, many older adults like Five Points since it’s a charming, historic neighborhood that has:

Tree-lined streets
Quaint shops
Easy access to dining and cultural venues

Other quiet and well-liked areas are Normaltown and the Boulevard Historic District.

What Activities Are Good for Lonely Elderly People?

The National Institute on Aging reports that loneliness and social isolation can affect the health and well-being of older adults. So it’s important to stay socially and mentally engaged.

Great activities to combat loneliness and isolation are:

Joining community senior centers
Being part of hobby clubs
Taking classes in art
Gardening

You can also join low-impact exercise groups since they not only promote mobility, but also help you meet others.

Volunteering for local causes can provide purpose and regular social contact too. Plus, you’d be giving back to your community.

What Should a 70-Year-Old Be Doing Every Day?

A 70-year-old should have a balanced daily routine that supports physical, mental, emotional, and social health. This should include:

Mild to moderate physical activity (e.g., walking, stretching, or gentle yoga)
Mental stimulation (e.g., reading, puzzles, learning new skills, or engaging in creative hobbies)
Social interactions (e.g., phone calls with friends, group activities, or volunteering)
Restful sleep
A nutritious diet
Routine healthcare appointments

Enjoy Senior Living in Athens, GA

By now, it should be clear that Athens, GA, is a wonderful city for older adults to live in. There’s lots of access to outdoor spaces, which ensures that you can stay fit, both mentally and physically.

And if you move into a senior living community like ours, then you’ll be well taken care of. You’ll have the best golden years possible, meaning that you can truly enjoy your retirement without a worry.

Get in touch with us now if you’re interested in senior living in Athens, GA. TerraBella Epps Bridge has a 20-acre garden campus that gives you everything you need within a 5-mile radius, such as restaurant-style dining.