Step by Step: Lakewood’s Walking Club Adds a New Path to Connection

At Lakewood, staying active is part of daily life for residents and team members alike. This year, a new initiative is enriching daily life in Memory Support through shared movement and connection.

With input from Memory Care Manager Kathy Reich and Program Coordinator Connor Ash, resident Walter Ayers helped launch the Walking Club, an ongoing volunteer effort where residents and team members walk alongside Memory Support participants twice a week. Together, they promote wellness and create meaningful moments outdoors.

“For Walter, the club is as much about purpose as it is about exercise. “Being a senior citizen living in a retirement community does not mean that the opportunity to serve others no longer exists,” Walter said. “To the contrary, new opportunities surface, as a group of volunteers at Lakewood has proven.” His words reflect a shared belief among participants that giving back creates meaning at every stage of life.

Volunteers walk with Memory Support residents who enjoy spending time outdoors, offering encouragement, conversation, and fresh air.

“Our group believes that walking is one of the most foundational activities for staying strong and maintaining well-being,” Walter explained.

Volunteers Claire Gross, Karol MacLaughlin, Elaine Mowery, Ann Peterson, Syrena West, Bill Bateman, and Glen Scott have each joined in the effort, creating moments of connection with every step.

“They are making a real difference,” Walter said. “It is rewarding to see the smiles, gratitude, and sense of accomplishment that come from something as simple as a walk.”

Step by step, the Walking Club continues to bring purpose, connection, and joy to Lakewood’s Memory Support neighborhood.