Never 2 Old 2 Get Fit!
Older Americans and National Physical Fitness & Sports month
May is Older Americans Month and National Physical Fitness & Sports Month. Check here weekly throughout the month of May for inspiring stories on how VA facilities across the country are getting their aging Veterans more physically fit. This year’s theme is “Never 2 Old 2 Get Fit”
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May 16-20, 2016
Bath VAMC
Veteran Gene Holder at the Bath VAMC stay active by participating in the Healthy Lifestyles program with Recreation staff to help maintain their strength and endurance.
Birmingham VA Medical Center
The Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Pain Program (CIPP) at the Birmingham VA Medical Center incorporates the principles of integrated health in addition to traditional rehabilitation medicine to provide patient-centered care. Active therapies such as Yoga and Tai Chi/Qi Gong are offered daily. We strive for physical and mental well-being. Pictured is Mr. Stephen Colbert
Buffalo VAMC
Every morning in the Buffalo VAMC Adult Day Health Care Memory group, David Krieger, Recreation Therapy Assistant, leads the veterans in a session of Tai Chi. With the help of volunteers, CWT's, and fellow veterans, Dave puts the group through a stretching and invigorating session, that sometimes includes songs and military candence. All veterans can participate, and all activities are adapted to fit their needs.
Martinsburg VAMC
Veterans participating in the annual VISN 5 Mini-Games at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center.
Portland VAMC
Under the guidance of Recreation Therapist, Nancy McFarlane, CTRS, Veterans at the Portland VA Health Care System warm-up prior to Tai Chi instruction.
Veterans learn the first 17 movements of the Taoist Tai Chi 108 set at the Portland VAMC Tai Chi class. Veterans are encouraged to continue their Tai Chi practice by joining a community Taoist Tai Chi class. Students can attend as many classes per week in any of the Portland Metro locations as they want regardless of the capability of contribution.
Little Rock VAMC
Geriatric Walking Clinic: Meeting Rural Veterans Where They Are
Sometimes moving hurts. But if you move and stay active, you are more likely to be able to care for yourself and stay independent. The Geriatric Walking Clinic (GWC) at the Little Rock VAMC is a nurse-run, at home, personalized walking program.
VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
Gerofit Program participants from the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System get ready to join in on the' Y2K Walk and Roll' May 18th which was dedicated to wellness.
Pictured left to right (Yasuto 88, Henry 85, Tsutomu 83, Robert 90, Geno 65, Jimmy 85)
Physical Health Benefits of Exercise in Older Adults
- Exercise improves strength, flexibility, and posture, which in turn will help with balance, coordination, and reducing the risk of falls.
- Exercise can improve immune function, blood pressure, bone density and digestive functioning.
- Exercise can lower the risk of several chronic conditions including diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and certain cancers
Mental Health Benefits of Exercise in Older Americans
- Exercise can improve your sleep which is important for overall health.
- Exercise is a huge stress reliever and the endorphins released can help reduce feeling of sadness, depression, or anxiety
- Exercise is good for the brain which can aid in the prevention of memory loss, cognition decline, and dementia.
Tips for Starting A Fitness Program
- Get medical clearance before starting an exercise program. Ask if there are any activities to avoid
- Consider health concerns
- Start slow
- Commit to an exercise schedule
- Stay motivated
Talk with your VA Healthcare provider and team to learn how to become more active!
