New York seniors have access to free resources in Spanish that allow them to incorporate exercise routines, stay active and commit to a healthy life.
The New York Office on Aging (NYSOFA) offers online classes through a partnership with the GetSetUp app, which include at-home exercise classes and other health topics. Most importantly, this virtual tool is 100% available in Spanish, is very easy to use, and has valuable content backed by science.
Simply go to https://www.getsetup.io/series/gsu-en-espanol. These online tips are almost always taught by older adults.
“This option is critical for many reasons. Older adults who participate in activities that promote bone health, strength training, nutrition, or exercise can mitigate the likelihood of falls, which are a major concern and the leading cause of injury in this population,” said Roger Noyes, spokesman for the New York City Office on Aging. (NYC Aging)
For example, this online class platform has scheduled the course: “Empower yourself: Exercises for better posture” for next October 3 at 1:00 PM, lasting 30 minutes.
All you need is an internet connection and a mobile phone to participate in this class.
On October 6th at 1:00 PM there will be a class on “5 Ways to Motivate Yourself When You Don’t Want to Exercise” and on October 7th at the same time there will be instruction on “Starting the Day with Stretching and Toning.” And on October 8th the class will be on “Let’s Work on Balance and Strength.”
Go to a center in your county
NYC Aging believes that group exercise and wellness activities, whether at a senior center or online with peers, also help combat social isolation and improve physical and mental health.
In addition, it is worth noting that the 300 senior centers available in all counties of the Big Apple, and in many Hispanic-majority neighborhoods, offer many health and exercise promotion programs.
Popular programs include health and fitness classes, including yoga, tai chi, chair exercises, dance, Zumba and walking club, which aim to improve cardiovascular health and endurance, help manage chronic diseases and reduce the risk of falls.
Specialized wellness courses are also offered, such as “Keep on Track” to control blood pressure, “Walk with Ease” to improve balance, and “Stay Well” for general well-being.
“By prioritizing wellness and fitness programming, we also offer ways to prevent social isolation, combat ageism, and ultimately help them live healthier, longer lives,” Noyes said.
Because these programs are so varied and offered locally, individuals are encouraged to contact their county Office for the Aging by calling NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871.
Individuals may also contact this line for information about local nutrition programs, which also play a critical role in optimizing health and quality of life. A directory of aging offices is also available on the NYSOFA website at https://aging.ny.gov/local-offices.
Living without fear of falling
This week, the New York State Office for Aging is sharing many informative resources in recognition of National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, which runs through September 27.
This nationwide celebration aims to raise awareness about fall prevention, fall risk reduction, and helping older adults live without fear of falling.
Falls are a serious problem and are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for adults aged 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the United States, about one in four older adults report falling each year. Of those, 37% require medical treatment or experience activity restrictions for at least one day.
Greg Olsen, director of NYSOFA, said they are creating educational plans to ensure older New Yorkers live as independently and actively as possible, for as long as possible.
“We are proud to participate in National Fall Prevention Awareness Week to keep you and your loved ones healthy. The message is simple: falls are preventable and there are proven ways to reduce and prevent them,” she said.