The Dutchess County Senior Exercise Program offers workout sessions for senior citizens in an effort to regain balance as well as bone density. The concept came from studies done in the late 1980's involving a volunteer group of both women and men, 86 to 96 years of age. This resulted in an increase of general strength as well as emotional comfort. Most importantly, members of today's program have experienced less falling than before, and so are able to go about their lives without worrying all the time. In addition to this, general activity can improve as it becomes easier to move.
Also, through strength training, even seniors can shape their body and lose unwanted inches. Classes are conducted in a circle of about 15 to 20 people, using a chair for support and free weights. These weights can be used for both legs and arms. Programs have been set up in different communities in Dutchess County and are accessible to over 800 seniors. In attending these classes, seniors will not only build personal strength, but also learn nutritional and safety information that will help in their daily lives. The Dutchess County Senior Exercise Program is run by the Dutchess County Office For The Aging.
Our exercise program has been in existence since 1997 as a pilot program and it was fully instated with a grant in 1999
Dear Exercise Participant:
All participants must fill out and sign the Senior Exercise Program Application (.pdf), which includes a Doctor's Consent Form and Demographic Statistical Sheet, and mail all completed forms to Office For The Aging, 114 Delafield Street, Poughkeepsie NY 12601, or fax to 845-486-2599 before starting classes. A suggested donation for this program is $25 per year and can be mailed in with your application. Checks should be made out to DCOFA Senior Exercise Program. We will call you upon receipt of these forms and make every effort to place you in your preferred class.