[Updated: June 28, 2021 | Published: June 28, 2021]
The concept of physical wellness has been around almost since the dawn of human civilization.
For example, the ancient Greeks honed their bodies by running, jumping, throwing javelins and discus, boxing and wrestling. These sports became the foundation of the Olympic Games.
In the late 19th century, the modern Olympic Games brought a renewed emphasis on physical fitness. By the late 1970s, fitness had become a hot topic in the United States. Remember “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” with Richard Simmons or the skin-tight leotards and legwarmers in Jane Fonda fitness tapes?
We’ve come so far since then! Physical wellness is much more than exercise and fitness—although these are important components.
At Friendship Village of Dublin, physical wellness is one of nine dimensions we call The Village Way. Working together, these nine dimensions of wellness help our residents live their best lives at every age.
What Do We Mean by Physical Wellness?
“Physical wellness is the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life that allows us to get the most out of our daily activities without undue fatigue or physical stress,” said Wellness Supervisor Jill D’Ooge.
Jill oversees and coordinates exercise and wellness programs for the Brandywine Fitness Center and the Ash Run Fitness and Aquatics Center. Providing a safe, nurturing and fun environment is a top priority.
“Physical Wellness means living responsibly and taking care of your body, recognizing that our daily habits and behaviors have a significant impact on our overall health, wellness, and quality of life,” she said.
Wellness is about the whole person and all aspects of life. It’s more about how you feel than how you look. Besides striving for health, wellness emphasizes living life to the fullest.
Activity Reduces Risks of Disease and Injury
“Adopting healthful habits while avoiding or minimizing destructive habits will lead to optimal physical wellness and reduced risk of preventable chronic illness,” Jill said.
According to the National Institutes of Health, physical activity has proven benefits as we age. Exercise reduces risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, colon cancer, and breast cancer. It also decreases the risk of falls and fall-related injuries.
Physical Wellness at Friendship Village of Dublin
“Physical wellness is one of 9 dimensions that helps complete our whole person approach to wellness through regular movement and exercise,” Jill said.
“We have developed a variety of programs based on all levels of fitness and interest to our residents—from independent living to assisted living and into our health center.”
Depending on their interests, residents can choose from a variety of ways to stay healthy and fit, including:
- Fitness classes
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Outdoor recreation programs
- Outdoor walking paths
- Heated indoor swimming pool
- In-home exercise videos
- Personal training
- Gardening
“Through movement, our residents develop stronger muscles, flexibility, balance, and better mental health and emotional wellness,” Jill said.
There’s also a strong social wellness component, as residents gather for fitness classes and outdoor recreation, use the walking trails, garden together and interact with a personal trainer.
What Physical Wellness Means to Our Residents
We take a highly personalized approach in promoting wellness for each of our residents. Here’s what two residents had to say about what physical wellness means to them.
“Exercise is helping me stay healthy, active and alert. The classes hold me accountable and give me opportunity to make new friends.” — Jean F.
“We exercise to stay in shape, keep our bodies strong and to feel better. It is a lifestyle we have always maintained. Good leader too!” — Jack and Marilyn P.
Spotlight on Personal Training
Many residents sign up for personal training to help them reach their wellness and fitness goals.
Jill has been training Kathy T., an 81-year-old resident, for over 6.5 years.
“In this video, Kathy is performing an exercise that works arms, abs and legs,” Jill said. “Pretty impressive!”
Kathy says she likes to work out and to stay healthy. “Not to mention, I like my trainer!”
Are You Living Life to the Fullest?
If you’re looking for an active senior community that emphasizes health, wellness and fun, you owe it to yourself to explore our premier LifeCare community.
You’re invited to schedule a safe, socially distanced visit to learn about all we offer!
Enjoy this blog post? Sign up for our newsletter to receive stories like these in your inbox!
