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Successful Aging - Archived Article
Here is to a Decade of Staying Healthy
The Stay Well Program is celebrating its ten-year anniversary this year! With four main components consisting of mini exercise, stress management, walking clubs, and health forums, The Stay Well Program has promoted healthy aging and improved the lives of over 500 seniors during its ten year tenure.
The uniqueness of the program is that its leaders are all senior volunteers. Between 10 and 12 senior volunteers lead the four components of the program. Working out of three Senior Community Centers--which include Vestal, Endicott, and Greenman-- volunteers conduct exercise classes, run the stress management programs, and stage the health forums.
Stay Well is geared to adults aged 55 and over and it is free of charge. Its benefits include increased flexibility; toning muscles; decreased stress; and an overall feeling of well-being.
The Stay Well Program provides a social opportunity for all participants, and more importantly, improves the quality of life for everyone involved. Participants praise the program for not only improving their physical health, but also their mental well-being. The fellowship that develops among members is an important facet of Stay Well's success.
Stay Well was adapted from the New York City's Department of Aging's Wellness program. Supported by the Broome County Office for Aging, the success of the program can be attributed to its dedicated senior volunteer leaders.
Mildred and Frank Moore of Johnson City are volunteer leaders for the Vestal senior Center. They have run the walking group for ten years. Mildred also runs the stress management group, as well as organizing speakers for the health forums. When asked why she has kept with the program for so many years, she replied, "It's an excellent program! I've met some wonderful people. The more exercising we do, the longer we keep going, I think the better we'll feel!"
Florence Melazzo has also been a volunteer leader for ten years. She runs the chair exercises twice a week at the Endicott Senior Community Center. The exercises emphasize breathing techniques, as well as flexibility and strength in knees and hips. One reason Mrs. Melazzo continues to lead the program is because she also experiences its rewards. "I don't foresee me giving it up anytime soon; because it's benefiting me as well as the girls in my group!"
With the motivation of these volunteer leaders, it is no wonder that the Stay Well Program is still going strong and looking forward to another ten years!
New participants and volunteers are always welcome. If you are interested in becoming a Stay Well Leader or want more information about participating in the program, please call Lisa Schuhle at the Broome County office for Aging, at 607.778.2411.
Next week: Don't overlook alcohol abuse in older people