Boyertown resident channels comeback through exercise, friendship

When the going gets tough, Betty Moore keeps going. The spunky 76-year-old Boyertown resident makes no plans on slowing down.

Despite undergoing a second back surgery in November to repair nerve damage and a bulging disk, she stays on the go.

In fact, Moore exercises three times a week. She’s a part of a group dubbed the “Foxy Ladies and Gentlemen,” which meets at Chestnut Knoll, a personal care and memory care community in Boyertown.

Free exercise classes are possible through Chestnut Knoll and its partnership with FOX Rehabilitation, which also provides on-site therapy services, including the exclusive FOX Optimal Living Program, to its residents.

The program originally began as a pilot project as a way to ensure seniors received therapy services despite insurance limitations.

“The FOX Optimal Living Program has exceeded all of our expectations for both our residents and the surrounding community. Since its introduction, the program has been a game changer and is what makes Chestnut Knoll a standout in the senior living industry!” Executive Director Shawn Barndt said.

Director of Physiology and exercise physiologist Eric Sartor facilitates the classes using a variety of modified workouts that focus on improving strength, mobility and balance. The exercises are tailored to benefit older adults and can be adapted to accommodate different capabilities, so everyone can participate.

“We welcome everybody to the exercise class!” Moore exclaimed. “Eric is wonderful; he takes an interest in your life, and he also puts up with our shenanigans.”

Her goal is to regain her abilities following her recent procedure. Through a steady exercise routine, Moore noted she now stands more frequently during class.

“Betty brings such a unique and positive element to our group. She makes it a point to interact with other members and staff, joking and motivating on a daily basis. She keeps the energy light and refreshing, putting smiles on a lot of faces. I also enjoyed getting to know Betty a little better during her short respite stay at Chestnut Knoll. She is such an incredibly valuable part of our group and I'm thankful she attends so often,” Sartor said.

Moore has attended these classes pre-pandemic. She discovered Chestnut Knoll by happenstance while at an appointment with her sister. She struck up conversation with a woman in the waiting room, who told her about Chestnut Knoll’s exercise class.

“I gave it a try and since then I’ve even recruited friends to go,” Moore laughed.

She quickly discovered the classes were more than fitness fundamentals. The high-spirited group that also includes Chestnut Knoll residents is a unique fusion of friendship, fun and support that includes lots of laughter and letting the good times roll.

Moore fondly explained, “It’s a great group of people; we have a good time when we’re together and thoroughly enjoy each others company. We check in on one another inside and outside of class, and on the first Wednesday we celebrate by going out to lunch.”

Having formed a bond among residents and staff, it was no surprise that Moore turned to Chestnut Knoll when she needed temporary care following her operation.

“If I had to move to Chestnut Knoll permanently, I would.” Moore shared on her experience. “The staff is kind and helpful and the food was good; I must say that. Chestnut Knoll is a pretty darn good place to be!”

Interested in joining a free exercise class or need temporary care? Call 610-473-8066 for more information.