The seniors at Riis Settlement’s Senior Center have been on the move – literally. New and exciting physically engaging activities like Chair Yoga, Walking and Exercise, Zumba, Wii and Tai Chi are filling up fast as the center works to help keep all its seniors as healthy as possible for as long as possible. We stopped by a few classes to try to keep up with the seniors.
Motivating and upbeat music filled the gymnasium for Wednesday’s Zumba class as the instructor cheered our seniors on and led the routines. After an upbeat pop son, the class cooled down with a little bit of salsa music and some salsa moves. This was followed by some stretching with instruction on proper breathing techniques. Audrey says the class is one of her favorites because it has improved her self confidence and she can feel the negativity melting away as she moves. Susan said the class is rejuvenating and is an escape from daily anxieties.
After Tuesday’s walking and exercise class led by Ms. Jeffries, Ms. Betty Williams, 72, was anxious to chat. She’s been with the senior center for over 29 years, and has lived in Queensbridge for over 40 years. She is a founding member of the center’s dance troupe – “The Senior Shakers” and points to a table of younger senior center members and says she has lots of “God children” at the center. “A lot of them call me grandma or Nana. I love them to death.” Ms. Williams has arthritis in her hands. Along with providing her an opportunity to socialize, she says gripping the weights during the exercise class helps her hands by extending the flexibility of her fingers. “Just like they say,” Ms. Williams says, “It’s not just a place to go but to grow. I can say if they don’t love me, they’re pretending they don’t. I’ve grown in heart and in mind from the love I feel from everybody.”
Other activities at the Senior Center include everything from “Jokercise,” to complementary manicures and pedicures on “Beauty Day.” Riis Senior Center participants are on the move and enjoying themselves in the process thanks to the great work of our Riis Settlement staff and volunteers.
