Nancy Weinbeck: 5 lessons from the for-profit senior living world
On May 31, National Senior Health and Fitness Day will celebrate its 30th annual event, a day dedicated to not only promoting the importance of regular exercise but to supporting and encouraging it.
We have learned a great deal about the value of physical activity and healthy aging since the first National Senior Health & Fitness Day 30 years ago.
I recall a time about five years before this event was created when I participated in a health fair for a senior center in Norristown, Pa. I was a fledgling Meals on Wheels coordinator, and I was quite proud of myself for having just joined a gym. When I shared that with a health insurance vendor at the health fair, he scowled at me and said that all I’m doing is increasing my risk of injury. Well, times have certainly changed.
At the risk of stating the obvious, we now know we lose what we don’t use. Less physical activity begets less physical activity. Less mental activity begets the same. And readers of this column know that our minds impact how our bodies age and vice versa. Therefore, my hope is that you view this day as a recommitment to your health and well-being by incorporating just a little bit more physical activity into your day. Every day. It’s the little steps that lead to new habits that become bigger steps. And bigger improvements.
An option: Consider visiting Bayview on May 31 as we join in the celebration with the return of our annual health fair. This public event kicks off at 1 p.m. and will include vendors and 20-minute sample classes led by our esteemed and multi-talented Fitness Director Charlene Watson, which may include resident favorites like tai chi, seated yoga, line dancing, Zumba gold and yoga flow. If anyone can inspire a little more movement in our day, it’s Charlene. Just ask any Bayview resident. And accept our wishes for a most active and happy National Senior Health and Fitness Day. Registration is required at www.bayviewseattle.org/events.
Nancy Weinbeck is the CEO of Bayview in Queen Anne