The senior program of NHSP is to encourage seniors to be proactive in their daily living. The objective of the Senior Exercise Program was to introduce various activities for promoting graceful living together. One of the senior program activities aimed at encouraging the physical activity of the seniors at senior retirement residences though exercise tutorials. The exercises, which were a favorite of the seniors, covered fundamental aspects of movement including balance, strength, and mobility while still being applicable to an older population. Given the complications with COVID-19, the program was conducted while maintaining minimal physical contact. The participants were provided with physical paper copies of the exercises along with a URL link which included the exercises in a video format for those with access to digital devices. The FitBit Charge 3 was distributed amongst the senior participants as both an incentive to stay active, but also as a means of increasing their activity levels. The seniors were contacted through phone calls weekly to briefly discuss their experiences with the program in regard to difficulty levels and frequency of exercise. As a result of the exercise program, many of the seniors have kept active and maintained a healthy level of physical activity. This allows for the preservation of their muscular strength which aids in their ability to live independently.

 

With the additional NHSP fund program for CTSS providing continual support to seniors in

communities, the seniors can experience a holistic recovery as they feel socially supported, cared for, and have reduced anxiety. Ultimately, they are able to retain their holistic wellness and become resilient, which is especially important in the COVID-19 storm.