Active Aging Week Coming to Bozeman September 24

September 11, 2012

Don’t just grow old, grow better! Change the way you age through “active aging,” or staying active in all dimensions of life. Hillcrest Senior Living, in association with Bozeman Deaconess Health Services, The Ridge Athletic Club and the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, can help you learn how.

Active Aging Week, to be held Monday, Sept. 24, through Saturday, Sept. 29, promotes the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for Gallatin Valley’s older adults by offering opportunities to experience activities and exercise in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere.

“The concept of active aging is summed up in the phrase ‘engaged in life,’” said Ginger Lee, Hillcrest Wellness coordinator. “Individuals can participate in life as fully as possible, regardless of socioeconomic status or health conditions, within the wellness dimensions —physical, intellectual, professional, emotional, spiritual, environmental and social. Remaining active in these dimensions of wellness keeps us involved, alert and enjoying a productive life.”

Sponsored annually by the International Council on Active Aging (lCAA), Active Aging Week promotes healthy aging, with events planned locally to fit the needs and interests of an area’s senior population. ICAA supports professionals who develop wellness and fitness facilities and services for adults over 50.

In Bozeman, events will be held at Hillcrest, The Ridge and the Bozeman Public Library. Activities are delivered in a fun, no-pressure atmosphere with an emphasis on camaraderie and health education, and are free to older adult participants, so cost is not a barrier, said Lee. The main event this year will be a Trail Walk along the trails and paved sidewalks around Hillcrest.

Other events are still in the planning stage but may include activities such as dance, yoga, zumba, drumming, croquet, bocce ball, Wii games and board games. There will be presentations on what older adults need to know about nutrition, driving, trail walks, cognitive skills and keeping feet fit. Seniors also will be able to walk the Labyrinth for spiritual peace, attend a quilt show, and enjoy a wine and cheese reception with music by Bozeman’s Kelly Roberti.

Door prizes will be awards at various events, and the week’s activities will be capped with a closing ceremony following the “Highland Hightail” walk/run on Saturday, complete with a picnic and entertainment.