October 2006 Vol. 25. No. 10

Published by the Humboldt Senior Resource Center in Eureka, California. HSRC is a non-profit community-based organization offering services for senior citizens, multi-generational families and caregivers.

Reading Service of the Redwoods Volunteers
Medicare Rx: October dates can affect prescription plans
California's Universal Health Care - could it have worked?
Senior Aqua Aerobics: A new group likes getting all wet
Del Norte STRONG classes
McKinleyville - Health services at the senior center
Fortuna-Feeling dizzy? Feeling tired? Maybe it's your pills
Diabetes and obesity: a modern day epidemic
Senior softball: World champ gets his ring

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I found that a regular program of aqua aerobics was increasing my health and stamina. Many seniors at the Arcata senior dining center wanted to join me.

I am specially trained to teach the disabled and, as a counselor, have organized self-help groups during the years while my husband, John, taught as a lifetime-certified adapted aquatics instructor. As a P.E. teacher he specialized in orthopedics and other health impairments.

So the HealthSport management accommodated us by offering two sessions per week (Tuesday and Thursday) at only $10 a month for participants. This includes senior aerobics in the pool and stretching exercises in the hot tub. This program is located directly across the parking lot from the Arcata Community Center and is limited to the period immediately preceding lunch at the senior dining center and to the facilities of the pool, the hot tub and the shower. Some seniors who want to use more of the facilities pay for a full HealthSport membership.

There are now 34 seniors in the group, and an average of about 20 people attend each session.

Inspired by music of the 1940s, I lead the group in the pool with modified weight lifting, then aerobics directed toward strengthening the heart, and followed by a short session in the hot tub stretching muscles and joints. The emphasis is on having fun while learning safe ways to move the body.

John uses his expertise working individually with those having particular challenges like a pacemaker, fear of the water or difficulty with knees, hips or shoulders.

"I have always found a warm water pool to be a medium for healing people quickly with the least side effects," John said. "It usually results in a warm smile, major physical gains and a positive self-image." John is a retired adapted physical education teacher and consultant in adapted aquatics.

The group has formed friendships beyond the aerobics time of 10 a.m. At their last potluck they played bocce ball under John's coaching. Besides affording companionship, it isn't unusual for members to share how the program has benefited them since they began - more flexibility, greater strength, more confidence both in and out of the water, pain relief and the ability to perform skills otherwise impossible on land.

If you want to join, check with your doctor for your specific health recommendations. Then enroll at the front desk at HealthSport. Bring a suit, towel and perhaps pool shoes for safety.