Celebrate Older Americans Month
The Gateway Family YMCA
In honor of Older Americans Month this May, The Gateway Family YMCA and Shaping Eastern Union County will be hosting a series of free virtual community educational HealthEASE Presentations, YMCA Chronic Disease Self-Management programs, wellness opportunities and social events. Individual event listings and registration information is available at tgfymca.org/events
“The global coronavirus pandemic has brought unique challenges to our senior population, exacerbating chronic disease, social isolation, mental health and obesity rates based on multiple recent studies. At The Gateway Family YMCA we found a bright spot in the consistency, community and support we have been able to build within our virtual programs and events, especially within this group of community participants,” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA.
Virtual programs will be facilitated by Susan Butler, Director of WISE Adult Day Services and Paul Mickiewicz, Senior Director of Healthy Living at The Gateway Family YMCA.
Virtual Events offered by The Gateway Family YMCA in celebration of Older American’s Month this May include:
HealthEASE – Serving Up Good Nutrition
May 3, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Learn to identify common nutritional deficiencies in older adults and learn some easy ways to make meals healthier.
HealthEASE – Keep Your Mind Sharp
May 10, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Learn about the effects of normal aging on the brain, how to improve brain function and prevent “senior moments”.
None Better Than a Boomer Trivia!
May 24, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Join The Gateway Family YMCA for a fun and fact-filled virtual trivia game, especially designed for Boomers! Test your knowledge and spend time with friends.
Healthy Eating Presentation
Mondays 10:15-11:15 a.m.
Provided as a complementary program to Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring, individuals will learn about health, nutrition and healthy eating options.
Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program
Wednesdays 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Participants work with trained YMCA staff to improve their self-monitoring skills with the goal of reducing and managing blood pressure and enhancing knowledge of healthier eating habits.
Diabetes Empowerment Education Program
Wednesdays 2:00-3:00 p.m.
This program is designed to help participants gain a better understanding of diabetes self-care. Curriculum includes preventing complications, increasing physical activity, improving nutrition and utilizing available resources.
Healthy Living Behavior Change
Fridays 10:15-11:15 a.m.
This program is designed to assist members in setting goals and making personal progress to a healthy life.
Free community registration for all individual events and sessions is available at tgfymca.org/events. In addition to these community events, the YMCA suggests individuals check with their health insurance regarding programs and options that may be available to cover the costs of a Y membership or provide incentives for participation.
“The YMCA is one place where everyone can participate, get healthy and make new friends, even virtually,” stated Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “We have served communities in Eastern Union County and Northern Middlesex County since 1900, and understand the unique needs of those who may need a little extra support in their wellness journey.”
The Virtual WISE Adult Services program provides specialized support for individuals, families and caregivers living with dementia, Alzheimer’s or mild cognitive impairment. For more information, contact Susan Butler, Director wiseinfo@tgfymca.org or 908-349-9622. The HealthEASE educational series was developed by the NJ Institute for Successful Aging and is sponsored by the NJ Department of Health and Senior Services.
The Gateway Family YMCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community and stands For Youth Development, For Healthy Living and For Social Responsibility. The Gateway Family YMCA impacts the community by providing quality services to people of all ages, races, faith or incomes. The Y doesn’t just strengthen bodies – it strengthens people, families and communities.
Shaping Eastern UC is committed to improving the health and well-being of county residents and creating strategies to support improved health, nutrition and physical activity for all. The Shaping Eastern UC Initiative is sponsored by the County of Union New Jersey.
For more information about programs and services provided by The Gateway Family YMCA, visit tgfymca.org or contact 908-355-9622.
