Asbury Communities and the City of Frederick are excited to announce the 2025 groundbreaking of Asbury SeniorScapes at Monocacy Village Park, a public park space designed specifically to meet the unique needs of older adults.
This pioneering park’s design features walking paths, equipment for cardiovascular health, stairs and ramps for improved mobility, and balance beams, steppingstones, and stability exercises to enhance balance and prevent falls.
SeniorScapes, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has received over $500,000 in funding through a grant from the Delaplaine Foundation, an AARP Community Challenge Grant, and a Community Development Block Grant from the City of Frederick. The park’s name reflects seed money from Asbury Communities and the fundraising support and guidance of Asbury Communities’ philanthropic arm, The Asbury Foundation. Asbury Communities is among the nation’s 20 largest not-for-profit systems of continuing care retirement communities with award-winning senior wellness.
The brainchild of Sue Paul, Senior Director of Well-being and Brain Health for Asbury, SeniorScapes reflects her passion for senior wellness. Drawing on her extensive experience as an occupational therapist and her deep commitment to healthy aging and brain function, Paul hopes to make senior- and dementia-friendly parks a part our society’s fabric.
“For older adults, having access to social support and opportunities for interaction in park settings is essential for cognitive health and overall well-being,” says Paul.
“Asbury SeniorScapes at Monocacy Village will provide exercise equipment for seniors that enhances quality of life by promoting healthy habits in accessible public spaces,” said Mayor Michael C. O’Connor. “By creating environments that encourage physical activity, we encourage our seniors to stay active, engaged, and connected with their community.”
The importance of such spaces is underscored by recent U.S. Census Bureau data, which shows that around 15% of Frederick County’s 272,000 residents are aged 65 or older. This demographic is growing three times faster than other age groups, according to the Frederick County Land Preservation Parks and Recreation Plan.
