By Meaghan Avery, Senior Program Director-Healthy Living at Old Colony YMCA
For older adults, the combination of physical activity and social connectedness is essential for maintaining an overall sense of well-being. Regular physical activity contributes significantly to overall health, aiding in the maintenance of mobility, balance, and strength crucial for daily independence. It plays a preventive role in chronic conditions and enhances cardiovascular health, bone density, and mental well-being. Additionally, engaging in exercise classes or group activities not only provides physical benefits but also creates social opportunities, fostering a sense of community and support.
Social connectedness also plays a crucial role in the emotional and mental health of older adults. Social interactions offer emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and provide a sense of belonging and purpose. Regular social engagement exposes older adults to cognitive stimulation, improving communication skills and contributing to a positive outlook on life. The combination of physical activity and social connectedness promotes a healthier and more fulfilling life for older adults, enhancing their overall quality of life and longevity. Encouraging community-based programs that incorporate both elements can be particularly effective in addressing the multifaceted needs of older adults.
Old Colony YMCA (OCY) is deeply committed to addressing the unique needs of older adults in our community. We employ a thorough and responsive approach to understanding and serving these needs. Through surveys, focus groups, consultations, and partnerships with organizations like Councils on Aging, we actively engage with older adults to gather direct feedback on our offerings. This invaluable input directly guides programs and services offered, ensuring they are tailored to cater specifically to older adults.
Our diverse offerings include group exercise classes such as Zumba Gold, Aqua Zumba, Forever Fit, Chair Yoga, and more, emphasizing both physical activity and social engagement. We also provide aquatic programs like Aqua Arthritis and Aqua Fitness, acknowledging the therapeutic benefits of water-based activities. Enhance Fitness, aimed at improving strength, balance, and flexibility, is a cornerstone of our offerings for active older adults. Additionally, we offer other evidence-based health interventions like the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program, and LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, each addressing specific health and wellness needs of older adults.
To foster community and support, OCY hosts coffee hours and caregiver groups, creating spaces for older adults to connect and share experiences. Organized trips and seminars on topics such as fall prevention, Alzheimer’s, and grandparents raising grandchildren provide valuable resources and knowledge. OCY remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for this demographic. We continuously adapt our offerings to address evolving needs and ensure older adults have access to the resources and support necessary for a healthier and more fulfilling life.
For more information visit us at https://www.oldcolonyymca.org/.
Community Voices for Health 