“From tai chi classes to LifeBio courses and Dakim Brain Fitness, residents are empowered with a variety of choices to help them age successfully. Our focus for National Active Aging Week is to offer a variety of exercise activities in a safe, fun environment,” said Abby Reynolds, Edgewater’s director of wellness.
In September the wellness team at Edgewater celebrated National Active Aging week with a variety of activities aimed to support the physical and social health of their residents. The recently-opened West Des Moines Active Life community promotes a holistic philosophy that focuses on the six dimensions of wellness — physical, emotional, vocational, social, spiritual and intellectual. Edgewater residents experience a wellness program that reaches far beyond physical health to build on individuals’ social engagement, spiritual enlightenment, emotional strength and intellectual health.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults who choose to stay healthy both mentally and physically reduce their risks of heart disease and diabetes. Reynolds stresses the importance of physical strength, highlighting upper body strength and flexibility for older adults. Edgewater fitness classes are function-based and each move serves a purpose beyond strength — like ensuring flexibility and balance so older adults who are grandparents can easily pick up and carry grandchildren or continue to enjoy their favorite activities like golf, tennis or swimming.
Read the full news release.