Bel-Air Nursing, YMCA Announce New Partnership

GOFFSTOWN, NH — As part of its mission to support health and wellness for people of all ages and abilities, the YMCA Allard Center of Goffstown has entered into a new partnership with Bel-Air Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, according to a press statement. Thanks to a charitable grant from the Pearl Manor Fund (part of the Mary & John Elliot Charitable Foundation), certified health and wellness professionals are leading “15-15-15” classes at Bel-Air twice a week.

Offered free of charge to residents of Bel-Air, the class offers 15 minutes of aerobics, 15 minutes of strengthening exercises, and 15 minutes of flexibility and balance all done from a chair for support and stability.

“Exercise has many important benefits for people of all ages, said Katie Welch, director of Healthy Living at the YMCA. “Regular physical activity can help to make everyday tasks easier for older adults. Keeping muscles strong can improve balance and help to lower the risk of experiencing falls. Many people also find that they have more energy and a better outlook on life when they are consistently active.”

According to Ms. Welch, who is an American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM-CPT), exercise does not need to be complicated. She recommends trying to avoid sitting for an extended period of time and getting up and moving around as much as possible. Recruiting friends or family members to stay active with you can help to keep you motivated and accountable to stay active.

“We’re very excited about this partnership,” said Kerry Sullivan, Case Manager at Bel-Air. “Thanks to the generous grant from the Pearl Manor fund and the expertise provided by the YMCA, our residents can take advantage of a great program which can enhance their quality of life and improve mobility.”

To learn more, visit graniteymca.org.

Submitted by Chris Dugan.