The Portage Township YMCA is the recipient of a YMCA of the USA grant for an evidence-based program created for older adults with chronic conditions, such as arthritis. Enhance®Fitness, an older adult and arthritis management program, helps participants from all fitness levels become more active, energized and empowered to sustain independent living.
As a cause-driven organization, the Y is committed to helping individuals in our community thrive in spirit, mind and body. We believe that strong bodies, engaged minds and the feeling of being connected are important to leading a fulfilling life. Nationally, seniors represent about 1 in every 7 Americans. By 2040, the number of Americans age 65 and over is expected to grow to 1 in 5, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services Administration of Aging. The Y’s EnhanceFitness Program seeks to improve the health and well-being of the community’s aging population.
EnhanceFitness is offered in partnership with the Portage Department of Parks & Recreation at Countryside Park, 5250 US-6, Portage, IN. The 16-week program begins September 5 with ongoing weekly registration. Class days/times are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Payment options and financial assistance are available. Assessments of the participants abilities are performed at the beginning of the program and every 4 months thereafter.
This data collection has allowed YMCAs across the country to prove this program works. Studies have shown there is a 90% retention rate, 13% improvement in social functioning, 35% improvement in physical functioning and 53% improvement in depression. It has also been shown that participants have fewer hospitalizations and $945 less in health care costs per year than non-participants.
“We are honored to be among the 2018 grant recipients,” said Erin Robles, Sr. Programs & Marketing Director of the Portage Township YMCA. “True to the Y’s mission, we work every day to provide opportunities for each person to live life to the fullest. Maintaining good health, particularly as we age, is key. We are so proud to be able to offer this program, which we are launching at Countryside Park in Portage to best serve all of Porter County.” The program will also be offered at the Portage Township YMCA beginning September 17, 2018 on Mondays, Wednesdays, & Saturdays from 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. The Y hopes to have 50 people registered for the program by September 30, 2018.
For more information about EnhanceFitness or Portage Township YMCA, visit www.ymcaofportage.org.
About Portage Township YMCA
The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. At the Portage Township YMCA, we believe everyone, regardless of age, income or background, should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For YMCA financial assistance, visit us at www.ymcaofportage.org