Evelyn sat by the window in the senior living community where she now lives, gazing at the blooming garden outside. Once a master gardener with steady and skilled hands, she now trembles with every movement.
This morning, a kind nurse named Alex had helped her dress. Evelyn felt a bit of sadness as Alex buttoned her cardigan, a task she used to perform effortlessly. “It’s okay to need help,” Alex said gently, noticing Evelyn’s frown. “You’ve taken care of so many. Now it’s your turn to be cared for.”
For many older adults, growing older involves the loss of strength, balance, and energy, which can lead to a decrease in quality of life. However, this does not need to be the case. The loss of functional abilities and health we associate with aging, such as climbing stairs, walking long distances, carrying groceries, or even getting dressed, are in large part due to physical inactivity.
Engaging in regular physical activity can be very beneficial. The Centers for Disease Control highlights that regular exercise, including activities that strengthen muscles and improve balance, helps older adults retain functional abilities, prevent falls, and improve overall quality of life. It also emphasizes the importance of “use it or lose it” when it comes to maintaining muscular strength and physical capabilities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024).
Through an effective fitness class like SilverSneakers Mobility, older adults can potentially postpone, reduce, or even reverse declines in physical abilities. This class provides participants with an exercise experience designed to keep individuals mobile and enhance their overall well-being.
Class Description
The SilverSneakers® Mobility class provides gentle, chair-supported exercises to enhance mobility and increase range of motion in all major joints. Exercise selection mimics activities of daily living, supporting participants in maintaining independence and quality of life. Cognitive health exercises and social interactions keep minds sharp while fostering meaningful connections.
Target Audience
This class is designed for individuals who need a gentle approach to exercise and are looking to boost their confidence with everyday activities while improving cognitive health and well-being. Additionally, this class will accommodate a broad range of skill and fitness levels—from beginners who need to sit to those who can stand for short periods of time.
Class Goals and Objectives
- To enhance mobility and range of motion: targeted stretches and movements are included to improve mobility and range of motion in all major joints.
- To improve activities of daily living: by incorporating functional movements that mimic activities of daily living (ADLs), residents can maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.
- To support cognitive health: class includes exercises and drills designed to enhance cognitive function. The combination of physical movement and social interaction in a group setting also helps participants stay mentally sharp while fostering emotional connection.
