Bloomfield Launches 'Project Healthy Bones' To Support Senior Wellness

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of Bloomfield. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

The Township of Bloomfield is expanding its growing Oakeside Seniors programming with the introduction of Project Healthy Bones, a 24-week, evidence-based exercise and education program designed to improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis among older adults.

Developed by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services, Project Healthy Bones addresses a critical health issue affecting millions of Americans, particularly women. Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, impacts more than 10 million people nationwide, with an additional 44 million individuals at risk due to low bone mass. Notably, women over age 50 are more likely to experience an osteoporotic fracture than a stroke, heart attack, or breast cancer combined.

Recognizing the need for proactive, preventative health programming, the Township introduced Project Healthy Bones as part of its commitment to supporting Bloomfield’s senior population.

“To see this program take root at Oakeside is incredibly meaningful,” said Mayor Jenny Mundell. “Our seniors have helped shape these offerings from the very beginning, and Project Healthy Bones is a direct reflection of that collaboration. We are committed to providing opportunities that help our residents stay active, healthy, and connected, and this program does exactly that.”

The initiative is led by Paula Peikes, Director of Human Services, who identified the program as a valuable addition to Bloomfield’s expanding senior services. Mary Parker, BMAC Coordinator, has since become a certified instructor and trainer for the program, helping to build local leadership capacity.

Two Oakeside participants, Barbara Parker and Jeannine Brady, have already been trained as peer leaders, with a third, Sue Morrocco, scheduled to complete training in April. Together, this team is currently guiding a full class of 20 participants through the program at the Oakeside Cultural Center.

“Project Healthy Bones goes beyond exercise by giving participants the tools and support they need to take charge of their health,” said Paula Peikes, Director of Human Services. “We’ve seen firsthand how our seniors benefit from programs that are accessible and shaped by their needs and interests. The enthusiasm for this initiative has been tremendous, and we look forward to continuing to grow it.”

The current session is at capacity and will run through September 3, 2026. Due to overwhelming demand, a second session is already scheduled to begin in October, with a waitlist in place.

Launched in late 2024, Bloomfield’s Oakeside Seniors program has quickly evolved into a vibrant, community-driven hub offering social, educational, and wellness opportunities. What began as a small initiative has grown to serve hundreds of participants, guided in part by the Mayor’s Senior Advisory Council and shaped by direct input from attendees.

Project Healthy Bones represents the latest step in the Township’s ongoing investment in senior health and well-being.

For more information about Project Healthy Bones or Oakeside Seniors programming, please contact: Mary Parker at mparker@bloomfieldtwpnj.com or Paula Peikes at ppeikes@bloomfieldtwpnj.com.

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