The number of adults 65 and older in the Richmond and Petersburg region is projected to more than double from the years 2000 to 2030. The number of adults 85 and older in this region is projected to triple during the same time period.
The YMCA offers Active Older Adult programming within the Keys to Aging Well: Physical Activity, Connecting with Others, Mental Fitness, and Fall Prevention.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
28 – 34% of adults ages 65-74 are physically active and only 35 – 44% of adults 75 years or older are physically active.
The Y offers a wide variety of land and water exercises class to meet the needs of all members with seated and/or standing classes at all location. We also offer a number of sports to help people to Age Well and stay young at heart.
LAND-BASED FITNESS
The YMCA offers low-impact exercise for all fitness levels. These classes include Gentle Strength, Gentle Cardio, Gentle Yoga, Zumba Gold and more. To search by branch and to learn more, click here. If you are looking for additional options that better match your fitness level, click here to view all of free group exercise classes.
SPORTS
Many Y branches offer pickleball and other adult sport programming. To search by branch and to learn more, click here.
WATER-BASED FITNESS
Use our heated, indoor pools for group exercise classes in the water, which are much easier on your joints and muscles. Visit our Schedules page to search by location and find the water fitness classes near you.
CONNECTING WITH OTHERS
Social isolation is associated with increased mortality and linked to dementia, increased risk for hospital readmission and increased risk of falls. However, research consistently shows that feeling connected and involved benefits both mental and physical health.
The YMCA provides a variety of social activities from games to luncheons and more. Check out our list of recurring events below. These activities are for YMCA members, but some are also available to non-YMCA members as well.
FOOD & FELLOWSHIP
Socialize at the YMCA with members and non-members alike! Activities include guest speakers, movies, luncheons, birthday celebration and more.
MENTAL FITNESS
As the population ages, risks for cognitive decline threaten independence and quality of life for older adults and present challenges to the health care system.
Billards
When: Thursdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Northside Family YMCA
Bingo
When: Tuesdays, noon
Where: Petersburg Family YMCA
Prizes will be offered
Bridge
When: Thursdays, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: Shady Grove Family YMCA Conference Room
Cost: $1 donation for refreshments
Wii Bowling
When: Tuesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Northside Family YMCA Teen Center
FALL PREVENTION
1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ falls each year. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall.
Physical activity can go a long way toward fall prevention. Consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi. Such activities reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.
Schedule an Appointment with a Wellness Coach for Y Fit Goal Setting session to get an exercise plan.
View Schedules Online