The ability to carry groceries, pick up the TV remote or get dressed without help can easily be taken for granted.
As people age, those everyday tasks become increasingly difficult. Through Hope through Housing’s Senior Fit program, residents are building the strength, balance and confidence to keep doing them on their own.
Vernola, 86, doesn’t hesitate when asked why she enjoys the class.
“It’s good for your body,” she said. “It’s good for your soul.”
Hope through Housing has offered the weekly classes at nine National CORE communities since the COVID-19 pandemic and will be adding a tenth shortly. Through seated and standing exercises, residents improve their mobility while building friendships that keep them coming back week after week.
“The biggest thing is maintaining their independence,” Senior Fit owner Ashley Hernandez said. “If you don’t use it, you lose it. People don’t realize how much they depend on their strength until they can’t do the little things anymore.”
Cheryl, 73, has been attending Senior Fit classes for nearly five years.
“My body hurts less, I can walk easier,” she said. “It gets me out of bad moods. It’s really good for my mental and physical health.”
Over the years, the weekly class has grown into a close-knit community.
“They’re constantly laughing and having fun,” Hernandez said. “When someone doesn’t show up, they go looking for them. They look forward to seeing each other.”
That’s one of Vernola’s favorite parts.
“I love socializing,” she said. “It gets me out of my room.”
Anna, 86, said movement has been part of her life since she began studying ballet at age 6. Although she no longer performs, staying active remains important.
“When I danced, I just felt at home in my body,” Anna said. “I still feel at home in my body when I move, and this class helps me move.”
