At Paul’s Run senior living community in Northeast Philadelphia, PA, visitors and residents alike are struck by the serene beauty and relaxing atmosphere of the many enchanting outdoor spaces found on the property. Not only can residents enjoy the peaceful, natural settings for picnicking, meditation, socializing and gardening, but they can benefit from following the instructional exercise signage that maximizes the physical benefits of outdoor exercise for seniors along the walking paths.

Meditation Gardens

Throughout the community, there are numerous meditation gardens for seniors with angelic statuary and architectural trellises, perfect for quiet contemplation, and spiritual connectedness, or for simply sitting and chatting with a friend or reading a book.

Two of Paul’s Run outdoor spaces are punctuated by colorful mosaic murals, nestled amidst the flowering azalea bushes and blooming flower beds. One of these areas has raised garden beds containing vegetable and flower plantings by residents surrounded by picnic tables and café seating.

Many Paul’s Run residents have a green thumb. They enjoy spending time in the community space where they can tend to plants, which increases their physical activity and community connections while gardening or dining outdoors. Getting outdoors in this popular spot promotes social interaction as neighbors’ balconies and patios overlook the tall, overarching trees that create a canopy above cafe tables and the walkway leading to a periwinkle blue iris garden.

Relaxation and Socializing Spaces

In another intimate space there are shaded benches, commemorative garden plaques, trees, ivy and a small fountain surrounded by angelic statuary, strategically placed, that provide a natural environment that can stimulate feelings of connectedness to nature. In another, a pond, shade trees, and an architectural trellis create an elegant courtyard with Adirondack seating set amidst a walled therapeutic garden for seniors.

By the entry front doors at Paul’s Run, a gracious, comfortable curving porch greets guests. Residents in relax in rocking chairs, talking with neighbors and loved ones, or birdwatching. Nearby, following the Walking Path around the right-hand corner from the expansive porch, there is more outdoor seating in a wooded setting.

Exercise and Wellness Paths

According to Bill Hines, Executive Director of Paul’s Run, “During the last few years we have updated and replaced all of the instructional work-out signage that punctuates the newly paved walking paths. This signage highlights the types of exercises that can be done by seniors while walking outdoors.” As many studies suggest, exercising outdoors can uplift seniors’ spirits, improving mood as well as physical health.

Alongside the Walking Path, at the rear of the community, there is an open green space, offering a sunny hillside lined with hedges and pine trees, flanked by a rustic, wooden beam fence, where residents can exercise or sit and chat with friends and enjoy the view. When strolling through this setting, one finds it hard to believe that Paul’s Run sits within the city limits of Philadelphia!

For more information about Paul’s Run, click here.