The most gratifying aspect of my work as a fitness professional is with the elderly residents on the Altzheimers and Dementia ward of a local nursing center. Each week I have the honor to work with a diverse and inspiring group of residents, who are suffering from devastating diseases such as Diabetes, Stroke, Parkinsons, Altzheimers and Dementia. Yet, they eagerly await my arrival every Tuesday and Thursday for our fitness class.
Despite their significant daily struggles of coping with illness, aging, and being in a long term care faciliity away from family and friends, they make the commitment to exercise. In this nuturing environment, little is taken for granted. It is truly the small things that make a difference. A hug, a gentle touch, a laugh, a memory of long ago, to the comraderie and support of each other and more importantly to witnessing and recognizing each other’s fitness gains. It is remarkable what a litte exercise can do to improve the quality of their life, their self-esteem along with the boost to morale and spirit.
Yet, many healthy people, young and old, create their own psychological barriers to exercising. The usual reasons are a lack of time, health issues, poor fitness level, cost and age. I wish these people could visit and experience my program. I am certain that it would provide a wake up call. Now is the time to exercise!
