September is Healthy Aging Month!
On Thursdays at Chelsea Retirement Community, a group of residents can be found dancing the Macarena in the McMullen Wellness Center. This line dancing class is led by Ballet Chelsea instructor, Macks Kreps, and is offered as part of an Artful Aging grant from E.A. Michelson Philanthropy.
Resident Laura Noble says, “It is such good exercise for the body, brain, and soul! And Macks is beloved by all—always cheerful, asking for input on what the group wants to do, and adapting dances to our varied abilities. Just a gem.”
Fellow resident and line dancing enthusiast, Kathy Gauger, agrees: “We have had a consistently large number of residents participating at each session. The instructor always demonstrates alternative options to those who perhaps cannot do the full steps safely. This allows those with limitations to benefit aerobically while feeling included and empowered. We have Independent Living residents in their 90s who, while holding onto their walkers, can move rhythmically with the beat of the music and a smile on their faces.”
September is Healthy Aging Month, but, at Brio Living Services, we celebrate and encourage healthy aging all year long for our residents and team members. We all need physical activity to stay healthy and independent as we age, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Added activities, from gardening or walking the dog, to swimming and dancing, can help us maintain the health and strength we need to:
- Do everyday chores and tasks
- Keep up with the grandkids
- Decrease your risk of falls
Physical activity can also help to ease pain and manage other health problems, lower the risk of many chronic diseases, and improve mood. Laura adds, “The endorphins we feel at the end of every class aren’t just from physical exercise. Throughout every class, we laugh a LOT, talk, and even sing along with the music.”
Health.gov’s Move Your Way initiative suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, as well as muscle-strengthening activity at least two days a week. Dancing and tai chi can count as both! Even five minutes per day can offer real health benefits.
We are delighted to offer NIFS (National Institute for Fitness and Sport) certified instructors at several of our Brio Living Services communities, who lead a variety of aquatic and aerobic activities for the older adults we serve.
See how Brio Living Services communities, PACE centers, and service lines promote healthy aging all year round!