Director's Message

DIRECTORS MESSAGE

April 2004

 

“Seniors On the Move”

 

Spring has arrived and people are coming out of hibernation. Next month, we celebrate Senior Center Week with the theme, “Seniors on the Move.” To celebrate this special week, PSRC is offering you a free pass to try a class that you are not currently enrolled in (see below). Join others at PSRC and get your mind and body in motion!

 

David M. Buchner of the U. S. Centers for Disease Control wants to get the message out that “few factors contribute as much to successful aging as having a physically active lifestyle.” Studies show that 75% of older adults lead a sedentary life, and that even regular walking can make a difference. The CDC recommends 30 minutes at least 5 days a week. You should also do strengthening activities 2-3 days a week. In addition, stretching and balancing can be done anywhere and don’t require any equipment. If necessary work up to these goals. Activities need not be strenuous; biking, gardening and swimming are all good alternatives. Find activities that you enjoy and that fit your particular abilities.

 

The CDC found that people who are physically active have lower medical costs, and that this benefit increases with age. Physical activity tends to improve cardiovascular health, balance and joint mobility. It is also helpful in the prevention of many chronic illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, some cancers, depression and anxiety, osteoporoses, arthritis and contributing factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

 

An article from the Wall Street Journal (2-17-04) reports that researchers at the University of Illinois found that improving fitness can boost the thinking ability of older adults. After three months, the subjects, age 58-78 showed increased brain activity and had 11% improvement on tests that measured their decision-making skills on a variety of tasks.

 

Improve you mind and body! Come celebrate “Seniors on the Move” May 9-15!

 

 

Susan W. Hoskins LCSW