Exercise and socialization have many life-changing benefits for older adults. Regular activity is the most effective strategy for improving health and longevity that’s under your control. Exercise can positively impact physical, emotional and mental health in many ways. It improves mood, boosts immunity, helps prevent chronic disease, relieves osteoarthritis pain and prevents bone loss.

While the winter months can present challenges for older adults to keep routines and activities, Northwest Colorado Health’s Aging Well program offers regular opportunities for older adults to stay active and engaged all year long.

“Sometimes exercise is more enjoyable with a friend,” said Lisa Vannoy, RN, Aging Well Supervisor and Wellness Nurse with Northwest Colorado Health. “If you lack a fitness partner, a community-based program can provide the social connection and the motivation you need to stick with it. Exercising in a group setting also provides an added layer of safety for older adults.”

The Aging Well fitness classes are designed for all ability levels and are led by certified instructors to help older adults reduce their risk of falls, injuries and illness and prevent social isolation.

“I’ve been attending a low impact exercise class for about a year now,” said Rosemary Crosthwaite, an Aging Well participant. “It is every Wednesday morning at the Catholic Church and sponsored by Northwest Colorado Health. The leader is a certified instructor with a big smile and a good sense of humor. It is a big part of my week. The exercises have made it possible for me to keep moving and continue to be active. I also enjoy being with others my age. Lunch is also served after exercise and followed by activities for any who want to participate.”

There are currently fitness classes available four days a week at varying locations, including:

• Geri Fit on Mondays at 9:30 a.m. at the Senior Social Center
• Geri Fit and Movement & Exercise on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., during Wellness Wednesday at St. Michael’s Church
• Geri Fit on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. at Sunset Meadows II (open to the public)
• Movement & Exercise on Fridays at 10 a.m. at the Senior Social Center

In addition to the health benefits of exercise, these programs also provide the opportunity for older adults to socialize and spend time with others in their community.

“Getting out regularly to socialize also has many benefits,” said Vannoy. “It helps improve mood, cognitive and memory recall, health behaviors, reduce loneliness and isolation, improve well-being and cognitive function. Socialization also reduces stress, anxiety and depression.”

Wellness Wednesday offers an opportunity to socialize and connect with neighbors every week. The day incorporates fun activities with exercise and Senior Wellness Clinics. The Wellness clinics include drop-in weight and blood pressure check, medication review and consultation with a nurse. All programs are offered on a donation basis, but no one is turned away due to inability to pay.

Northwest Colorado Health is proud to be a local resource and partner for the aging community. We invite community members to participate in these local programs, or encourage their loved ones to attend, to stay active and engaged all winter long. There are also many other wonderful resources in our community for older adults, and we are happy to help connect individuals to the resources they need to support their independence and aging in place.

To learn more about Aging Well please visit northwestcoloradohealth.org/agingwell or call 970-871-7676.