Jiří Novotný

What drives your work?

I've seen what happens when seniors discover they can still enjoy the outdoors—it changes them. They get more energy, sleep better, feel less anxious. But it doesn't happen by accident. It takes thoughtful planning, safe routes, proper pacing, and genuine understanding of what older adults actually need. That's what I'm here to provide.

How do you approach designing a nature walk?

Every walk starts with questions. What's your fitness level? Do you have mobility concerns? What interests you—birds, plants, history, quiet reflection? How much time do you have? I don't believe in one-size-fits-all programming. A 90-minute walk for someone with arthritis looks completely different from one for an active 70-year-old. I map routes with rest stops, identify accessible viewpoints, and research the ecology so I can share stories that make the experience richer.

Why is nature important for seniors specifically?

Nature isn't a luxury—it's preventative medicine. Time outdoors reduces blood pressure, decreases anxiety, improves balance, and supports cognitive function. The research is clear. But beyond the science, there's something more. When you're walking through a fishpond ecosystem, noticing birds, feeling the air change, you're engaged. You're present. That presence matters more than any gym membership.

What's the biggest misconception about outdoor activities for older adults?

That it has to be strenuous to be worthwhile. People think if you're not hiking mountains or covering miles, you're not really doing anything. That's completely wrong. A slow, two-kilometer walk through a wetland area with good observation and conversation is far more valuable than pushing yourself beyond comfort. Sustainability matters. If an activity leaves you exhausted for two days, you won't repeat it. But if it leaves you refreshed and wanting more, you'll keep going back.

How has your work with seniors changed your perspective?

I've learned that age isn't a limitation—it's a different way of experiencing the world. Older adults notice details younger people rush past. They have patience for observation. They appreciate quality over quantity. Working with 2,000+ participants over 16 years, I've seen people who thought their active days were behind them discover entirely new chapters. That's profoundly motivating. It reminds me why this work matters.