It’s Time for Seniors to Spring Into Action with Senior Fit

Springtime in Michigan is a great time to get outdoors and to get moving. For many people, this change of season, from cold to warmer months, brings with it questions, especially for seniors, regarding how to establish a healthy routine of activities, and how to stick with it.

Three leaders from the Trinity Health’s Senior Fit program recently participated in a Q&A to highlight the benefits of activity, and how the program is helping Michigan seniors develop healthy activity habits. The leaders are Jenna Pack, a physical therapist and site leader for TrinityElite at Trinity Health Livonia; and Kevin James, a physical therapy assistant and Senior Fit facilitator with TrinityElite at Trinity Health Livonia and Trinity Health Oakland; and Ashley Hoegler, a community health & well-being coordinator at Trinity Health Livingston and Trinity Health Ann Arbor.

Q: What are simple ways older adults can start a physical activity routine, sustain it, and do so safely?   

James: Start at home! If walking in your neighborhood is accessible, begin with a short walk around your block. Ask a friend or neighbor to join you and each time you go out, see if you can go a little bit further. Picking a fun destination can help! 

If a walk isn’t for you, consider using everyday items such as soup cans to lift weights. 

Regardless of what you choose, what’s important is that you choose something. Focus on exercises and stretches to reduce the risk of falling and develop a routine of activity to help create and sustain a healthier lifestyle. 

Q: How can an older adult best prevent injury or improve flexibility?

Pack: Adopting a healthy lifestyle and exercising for at least 30 minutes five days per week is the recommended amount of movement from the CDC. If your budget allows, consider working with a certified fitness instructor to learn proper form and technique. This can give you the confidence you need to exercise safely as you age and will help prevent injury. 

Engaging in consistent physical activity increases heart health, bone mineral density, balance and reduces the risk of falling. An active lifestyle also improves a senior’s ability to perform daily activities, navigate the community more safely, and engage in activities with family and friends with less pain and fatigue.

Q: Talk about the Senior Fit program at Trinity Health in Southeast Michigan. What exactly is it, and what type of classes do you offer?

Hoegler: Through grants and the generous support of our Philanthropy office, we have been offering the Senior Fit program for the past seven years. This program provides free fitness classes for seniors living in the communities we serve.  All classes are designed and led by licensed TrinityElite health and wellness professionals with an extensive background in exercise and sports medicine. We offer in-person classes in Ann Arbor, Livonia, and Oakland, as well as virtual classes to reach patients throughout the rest of the state. 

Q: Are there certain requirements needed to join the program?

Pack: The only requirement is that the program is available for people ages 55 and older. 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like seniors in our communities to know?

Hoegler: Senior Fit is a great program for all around wellness. Seniors who participate in the program are not only improving their physical health but are joining a community. With social isolation on the rise in this population, Senior Fit is a great opportunity to connect with others while getting exercise and staying active as you age.

If seniors have social barriers keeping them from participating in programs like this or are receiving medical care, we are here to help. Trinity Health Michigan offers a wealth of support for community members that need it, including Community Health Workers at our local hospitals who can help you locate and access resources in your area. 

To explore Senior Fit programs near you, click here.