Walkable Communities Are Good for Your Health

Have you been inactive during the pandemic? Putting on your walking shoes may improve your well-being. And, if you are looking for a new home, living in a walkable community may improve your overall satisfaction. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Realtors, those who have lots of places to walk nearby their homes, have an 8 percent increase in their quality of life. Walking positively affects and refreshes the brain’s white matter. Healthy white matter is important as it keeps your brain from deteriorating. So, living somewhere where you can take regular walks and run errands on foot keeps you in better shape.

What Makes a Neighborhood Walkable?

When you are scoping out new neighborhoods, look for characteristics that will make them walkable. Are there enough people nearby to make businesses flourish? Mixed-income/mixed-use areas are great neighborhoods to consider as they usually have a mix of both residential housing and businesses. Are there parks and public spaces to gather and to play? Does the neighborhood have a pedestrian design? For example, are buildings close to the street? Are there work places nearby? Streets designed for bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit are particularly worth considering if you want to live in a walkable community.

Walkable Communities on Oahu

Some of the most walkable communities on Oahu are Downtown, Ala Moana, Kakaako, Kaimuki, and Waikiki. All of these communities provide opportunities for you to walk to shops, restaurants, and in some cases, even work. You can enjoy great weather, close proximity to most everything you need, all while receiving the health benefits of walking.

Regardless of where you currently live or ultimately settle, walking is good for you. It will contribute to keeping you physically and cognitively fit. So, put on your walking shoes and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. Hawaii is paradise — a walker’s paradise!