SCARBOROUGH — Based upon the success of its current outdoors program, the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter has announced start-up of its Outdoors Club in the Lewiston/Auburn area.

The club’s first event will be its free “Sherwood Forest Nature Walk” from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Sherwood Forest Conservation Area in Auburn. People living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias, as well as their care partners, are eligible for this event.

The walk itself will be led by a staff member of the Androscoggin Land Trust, which helps manage the property.

“Our Portland-area nature walks have met with positive results,” said Outdoors Club coordinator Mark Pechenik.

Among the most important of these benefits is social interaction and healthy, accessible walking which can help enhance the quality of life of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their care partners.

“Too often, those living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias are told what they cannot do. But our Outdoors Club initiative offers activities which they can do and enjoy,” said Laurie Trenholm, the Maine Chapter’s executive director.

She pointed to ongoing research indicating that participation in outdoor recreation, as well as connections with nature, may have some impact on easing symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.

Advance registration by Tuesday, Oct. 22, is required. To sign-up, contact Misty Marston, helpline manager, at 772-0115 or by email at [email protected].