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Dick Libby (center) begins a workout. Classes and programs were specially designed to meet the needs of seniors, and they're getting results.
Ellen Bennett stretches during an exercise class Aliazon Frisbie works out on the stationary bike in the fitness center at Westminster-Canterbury. Two years after it started, the wellness program is serving about 180 seniors and still growing. |
IRVINGTON--One of the participants walks a tough treadmill mile each morning by 7, then another each afternoon by 4.
A second does yoga one day, water fitness another, managing to fit in low-impact aerobics on other days of a week filled with seven different classes.
Throw in the fellow who uses workout equipment and hefts 8-pound weights for strength and balance, and you get a sense of Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury's new wellness program.
The exercise and a growing interest
What makes the program at this Northern Neck continuing-care retirement community special is the age of the participants, and its healing properties.
The Rev. George Barton, 88, is the fellow who walks two miles religiously, then puts in additional time on exercise machines.
So far, he's lost 20 pounds, dropped his diabetes medicines and cut down on other prescriptions.
Linda Small, at the younger end of the 65-plus age range at RW-C, says the seven classes she attends each week have improved her balance, strength, flexibility and mental outlook.
Sterling Wright, a 99-year-old retired Army general, is the one who hefts the 8-pound weights. He wastes no time attributing his ability to get around and enjoy life to the most challenging strength, balance and flexibility class RW-C offers.
A member of the U.S. equestrian team in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, Wright says the program's structure keeps him going.
"Having a schedule and somebody expecting to see you at each session helps you get there," he said.
Perhaps the most inspiring story from the program came earlier this year, when 88-year-old Betsy Robbins began recovering from an initially debilitating stroke.
Through therapy and an exercise program, Robbins went from being locked in the fetal position in bed to the goal she shared with all--to walk with a cane.
She managed that, though subsequent strokes took her life by year's end. But those who marveled at her determination said the exercise program greatly improved her health and prolonged her life.
Faye B. Krejci, vice president of marketing and community development at RW-C, said the facility started the wellness program about two years ago.
Prompted by national interest in health and wellness, and responding to residents who arrive in better health and want to stay that way, the facility brought in a national consultant to develop a program specifically for seniors.
Soon enough, there were two positive results: a program that pushes all who take part; and the arrival of a kind but demanding wellness program director, Kori Poplin.
"In the past, too often exercise programs babied seniors, to the point where they didn't accomplish nearly as much as they can," said Poplin, who uses a winning smile, endless encouragement and detailed records to nudge those involved to improve.
Organizers initially hoped to sign up about 30 of the facility's 250-some residents. They were in for a surprise.
"After reaching out to those interested and doing an assessment for each, we had 90 people signed up," said Poplin. "We now have more than 180 taking part, and are still growing."
On a recent visit, the place was buzzing with exercise.
Workout machines, specially designed for older users, and even for those with diseases like Parkinson's, were clinking in the workout room.
Residents were putting in as many as 10 to 15 miles a day on bikes, and fitness classes were being held in hallways, meeting rooms and more.
While RW-C officials are thrilled by participation in the wellness program, they're even more excited by the health benefits being racked up.
"The really exciting thing is that the program is changing lives," said Krejci. "Residents who were nervous about getting up and out are doing just that."
Poplin noted that falls, a serious concern in such a facility, are way down, despite the fact that residents are much more active. And requests for new classes, and even outdoor activities like kayaking, are both way up.
Sister facilities and other retirement communities are taking note.
George and Melina Van Sant, who recently moved to RW-C from Fredericksburg, said they were pulled into the wellness program by friends.
"Now, we're trying to stay regulars," said Melina, who credits the classes with improving overall health for both.
Future goals for the program: expanded facilities, more participants and an expansion of an overall wellness program that includes components for good spiritual, financial, intellectual and other types of health.
For more information on the program or RW-C, call 804/438-4000 or visit rw-c.org. RW-C is affiliated with the Episcopal and Presbyterian churches.
To reach ROB HEDELT:
Email: rhedelt@freelancestar.com
| ' too often exercise programs babied seniors, to the point where they didn't accomplish nearly as much as they can.' Kori Poplin Wellness program director |
