How fitness program is keeping seniors active, healthy

2015 America’s Health Rankings – Ohio

Ranking: 30th

Trend: Up from 31st in 2013 and 2014

STRENGTHS

CHALLENGES

​Betty Burnett has heard plenty of excuses, but she doesn’t buy any of them.

“People say they’re ‘too old’ or they ‘won’t be able to keep up,’” Burnett said. “It’s really sad.”

At 80 years old, the Bellbrook woman plays pickleball and beach ball volleyball and takes a full slate of active older adult (AOA) and SilverSneakers classes at the South YMCA in Kettering. Burnett is one of a growing number of senior adults who are getting active and staying active well into their golden years.

The South YMCA branch alone has close to 1,400 registered SilverSneakers members and others who participate in Y-Senior Fit and Silver & Fit programs. Each of the programs allows participants to have their membership fees waived as a benefit of their healthcare plan.

“The insurance companies are making it easy for these seniors to have access to fitness options,” said Laura Duncan, YMCA senior membership services. “And they are taking advantage of it; it’s definitely a growing trend.”

Approximately one out of five people 65 or older is eligible for a SilverSneakers membership. Those with Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement Health plan may already have a SilverSneakers membership. But having a membership and using it are two entirely different things.

“Many people have their card in their pocket, but it’s not doing anything for them,” longtime YMCA member Al Ruggiero said. “You try to talk to them and tell them they should be here, but they’re not.”

At 78, the Centerville resident is back in the game after shoulder surgery and double-knee replacement. He is a regular on the volleyball court as well as the weight room.

“I came in here for the first time 36 years ago and never left,” Ruggiero said with a smile.

Room for improvement

America’s Health Rankings annually rates the states in terms of the healthiest and least healthy seniors. The study examines a variety of behaviors, community and environment factors, clinical care and health policy regarding senior health. In its most recent 2015 rankings, Ohio ranks 30th. The No. 1 ranking belongs to Vermont and Louisiana comes in as the least-healthy state at No. 50.

Programs like those at the YMCA can boost senior health and wellness.

“We eliminate all excuses,” said Molly Hallock, South YMCA health and wellness director. “There genuinely is something for everyone.”

When the South YMCA first added SilverSneakers programs less than a decade ago, there were three classes a week. Now, there are close to 30 senior group exercise classes a week — from line dancing to TRX and yoga to Zumba — plus activities like pickleball and corn toss.

“It keeps us young,” Donna Menelle, 75, said. “And it makes you feel good.”

The benefits extend well beyond the gym.

“In many of the classes, they learn functional movement that helps them in their daily lives,” Hallock said.

Friendship and fitness

Senior fitness programs are about more than breaking a sweat.

“It’s more than a workout; it’s about fellowship and making connections,” Hallock said. “It’s a healthy all-encompassing feeling. You feel great when you leave the Y.”

And SilverSneakers programs aren’t limited to athletic endeavors. There are lunch-n-learn programs, card games and other special events for the members who currently range in age from 65-96.

Menelle has been reaping the many benefits of the SilverSneakers program for the past eight years.

“I’ve made so many friends here,” she said. “I really look forward to it.”

For more information on SilverSneakers, Y-Senior Fit and Silver & Fit programs, call or visit your local YMCA.