Turnhout (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Marc Boogers introduced Silver Routes in Flanders with 78 benches for seniors and those with disabilities. Kelly Verheyen emphasized their role in promoting social interaction and reducing loneliness.
According to Marc Boogers, who is in charge of Mobility they are the first area in Flanders to create a plan for benches. They call it the Silver Routes, which are paths with good benches for older people, those with disabilities, or anyone who might have trouble walking. They bought a total of 78 new benches, and 50 of them are already set up. These benches are placed along the roads leading to the ring road and near the residential care centers.
How can new benches in Turnhout enhance accessibility for seniors?
Seniors asked for more benches because many have trouble walking to the city center without taking a break. Kelly Verheyen, who helps with equal opportunities, said the seniors walked the paths and showed where more benches were needed. They tried out different benches last year and chose one that is 53 centimeters tall, with armrests, a backrest, and a footrest.
The new paths opened on 25th September, and everyone is happy with them. Connie said the benches are comfortable and a bit higher, which makes it easier to stand up. Seniors hope this will encourage more people to walk to the center, where there are nice places to relax. Connie expressed hope that the new benches will encourage more people to walk to the city center. She believes that having comfortable places to sit will make it easier for seniors and others to enjoy the lovely terraces on the Grote Markt. By making the walk more pleasant and accessible, they hope that everyone can take advantage of the vibrant atmosphere and social opportunities available in the area, allowing more people to gather and enjoy the sights and sounds of the center together.
The benches are there to help people chat and meet each other. Rosette Broeckx, who leads the seniors’ council, said that they aren’t just for older people, families with kids use them too when they need a break. They are for everyone in Turnhout. She mentioned that these benches can spark random conversations, making them useful and a way for people to connect. Alderman Kelly Verheyen added that this also helps fight loneliness because the benches give people a chance to socialize.
