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November 10, 2016 - 12:56 PM
The YMCA of Okanagan wants to ensure that local seniors have access to resources and programs that will help them maintain their independence and health. In order to do so, they are offering free health assessments to the community a few times a year.
“We want to make it easier for older adults to be active and social,” explains the YMCA’s Senior Health and Fitness Manager, Kelley Taylor. “These health assessments give seniors a starting point to base their exercise routines, introduce them to our supportive YMCA community, and give them information on programs and services that can help them reach their goals.”
Les and Donna Mash heard about the YMCA’s free health assessments in the paper and decided to give it a try.
“We thought we would come check it out,” says Donna. “We realized that our balance had pretty much disappeared, and although we have access to free facilities in our housing complex, there is no incentive; no structure.”
The Mash’s love to have fun, and plan to stay independent and healthy as long as possible. They wanted to be more active, and figured the YMCA’s Seniors Health Assessment would be a great starting point.
“It showed us a lot of areas where we were lacking and what we needed to work on,” says Donna.
It turns out the Mash’s loved the Seniors Health Assessment, and the YMCA’s community feel so much that they decided to stay. They are now YMCA members and participate in programs including free health coaching, Aqua Fit, Healthy Hips and Knees, Mingle Mondays and more. They come at least three times a week, which they have found extremely helpful; especially since Les has COPD and is working to build up his strength to prepare for knee replacement surgery.
The YMCA’s next health assessment will take place at the H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre on Friday, November 18, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Each assessment is 45 minutes in length and includes testing of cardiovascular endurance, balance, flexibility, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, strength, agility and more.
Registration is required and space is limited. To reserve your spot call 250-491-9622 ext. 426. Click here to learn more about YMCA seniors programs.
News from © iNFOnews, 2016