January 2, 2026 —Maureen Marwick and Jan Maier, residents at Kendal on Hudson, a Life Plan Community (CCRC) along the Hudson River, demonstrate the profound benefits of nature-based wellness opportunities for older adults in retirement communities.
Maureen is a radiant, Scottish-born 89-year-old, who has made daily two-hour walks through the neighboring Rockwood Hall State Park a significant part of her physical and mental health routine since relocating from Manhattan two years ago.
Maureen, who will celebrate her 90th birthday in August 2026, maintains an active lifestyle that includes regular trips back to Manhattan for personal appointments or to catch a show. Her impressive career includes serving as a Beauty and Health editor for major Manhattan publications, such as Condé Nast and McCall’s, followed by a 20-year tenure in public relations.
Since retiring and then moving to Kendal on Hudson, the former urbanite has come to appreciate the natural surroundings of the park.
She shares, “I find joy on my daily walks, spotting local wildlife, including birds, deer and grazing goats, the beautiful Hudson River views and meeting people along the path”.
Located 35 miles north of New York City, Rockwood Hall State Park provides the perfect backdrop for Maureen’s wellness journey. The park features well-marked trails that showcase historic remnants, including stone walls and supporting structures from the original 19th-century Rockwood Estate. The scenic location offers visitors opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and nature exploration, with stunning views of the Hudson River.
Jan, who is in her 70s, has lived in France, Canada, Westchester and Manhattan, the last for close to 30 years. Her career was primarily centered in the medical field, where she was involved in both research and patient care. Her interests include history, literature, and choral and instrumental music. And, of course, walking.
Jan shared how the park captivates residents of all ages throughout the year.
“We see eagles, hawks, woodpeckers, mushrooms, sometimes a rabbit or grass snake, horses and their riders occasionally, cross-country skiers or their ski tracks, and, of course, the goats,” she says.
Jan notes that the park’s “cardiac hills” – affectionately named by a fellow resident – offer a more engaging workout than a treadmill, allowing her to walk up to six miles in a single day, something she didn’t know she could do before moving to Kendal on Hudson.
“Treadmills are useful,” she adds, “but they don’t offer the beautiful vistas and engaging sights that keep me moving on a walk in Rockwood.”
Recent research from Penn State University supports Maureen’s approach to healthy aging. Studies indicate that spending time in nature confers significant psychological, emotional and physical benefits for older adults, particularly when combined with social connections. The research shows that “forest bathing” and engaging all senses in natural environments can support mental, physical and emotional health in adults over 65.
Maureen’s and Jan’s stories demonstrate how retirement communities like Kendal on Hudson, situated directly adjacent to Rockwood Hall State Park, can optimize access to nature-based wellness opportunities for older adults of all ages.
The peaceful, serene and engaging environment of Rockwood Hall State Park offers residents the perfect balance of community living, just a quick train ride back to New York City, with natural immersion on the park trails and the absolute beauty of the Hudson River views. Many individual residents and the community as a whole take pride in supporting and showing their appreciation for the neighboring park.
Kendal on Hudson, with its access to walking trails, scenic views, and outdoor activities, creates an ideal blend of comfort, engagement and wellness. This approach not only enriches the lives of residents but also serves as a model for how close connections with the broader community, especially with such a beautiful park next door, significantly influence overall well-being.