A survey finds seniors are big walkers

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A survey has found that walking is a significant form of exercise for Western Australian seniors.
Seniors' Minister June van de Klashorst said the survey commissioned by Transport found that seniors walked for recreation and health reasons and tended to walk more frequently than younger age groups.
"Seniors comprise half of those who walk more than once a day and a third of those who walk six or seven times a week," the Minister said.
"They are also more likely to walk to local facilities rather than drive or take public transport.
"This shows that the Government's healthy ageing message is getting through and that older people have a high awareness of the benefits of walking.
"This form of exercise also saves money through lower petrol and parking costs, causes less damage to our environment and increases the opportunity for social interaction."
Mrs van de Klashorst commended Transport Minister Murray Criddle for this week releasing the survey of 1,510 Perth residents aged 16 years and over which was commissioned to assist with the development of a metropolitan region pedestrian strategy.
The survey found that the top-rated walking areas were Claremont/Nedlands and Fremantle which have good walking paths to local facilities, a good choice of places to walk and attractive streets.
Media contact: Owen Cole 9481 7810