Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 03/12/2020

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As youth transition into teenage and early adulthood, they are tasked with developing a sense of self and responsibility. At this point they go through a tremendous amount of biophysical and neurobehavioral changes. Approximately 7% of Ramsey's population fits this stage of development (note: 7% is an estimate. Available data encompasses 15 to 19, not 13-18). At this time in development, the brain is easily shaped by social learning through experience, direct interaction, self -reflection, education, and interaction with adults and peers. Adolescents are valuable resources to invest in, and not problems to be solved. Adolescents want to develop their capacities, and they need the type of opportunities that recreation programs can provide for them (cite NRPA 3). A n I 1 T: Adult programs are targeted to a range of ages and interests, as these opportunities are typically available to anyone ages 18 years and older. For the sake of clear cut categories, adult and senior programs are separated, even though they may see overlap in participation. While youth and seniors tend to be most targeted in recreation, it is important to not overlook the benefits adults receive from recreation. It is notable that in the United States only 3 in 10 adults are regularly active during their leisure time, and 4 in 10 adults are not active at all (Schoenborn, 2002). In Anoka County, one in four residents meet the CDC recommendations for activity. Beyond physical fitness, recreation opportunities offer increased well-being for adults, which can be found further discussed in Section 3. Those who are aged 20-54 are 50.1% of the population. Recreation services provide safe and engaging ways for adults to engage in physical activity. In addition to increased physical health, recreation can provide increased mental health/overall wellbeing. [reference latter section on health and wellness] SE N I 0 P As the Baby Boomer generation ages, there will be a greater need for services for seniors. Recreation can enhance the lives of seniors through providing both lower and higher impact opportunities to promote active living. Seniors who participate in recreation can limit the potential onset of diseases and impairment often associated with the aging process. Engaging in recreational activities that include a physical element can also help the aging population lead independent lives, by providing ways for them to remain mobile, flexible and keep their cognitive abilities sharp (source). Approximately 1 in 5 (20.87%) Ramsey residents fall into the 55+ category. More information on the impact of programs for seniors can be found in section X. Employment by Industry in Ramsey Wholesale Trade; 6%m, Health Care and Social Assistance, 6% Retail Trade; 11% -_ All Other Industries. 16% .....,---Educational Services, 6% Accommodation and Food Services, 5% Administrative and Waste Services, 4% -Other Services, Ex. Public Admin, 40 "—Public Administration, 3% zz-Finance and Insurance, 2% Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation. 1% Information, 1% Manufacturing, 34% CITY OF RAMSEY PARK SYSTEM PLAN