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Aiming to promote healthy lifestyles among Kerrville’s senior population, Peterson Health’s Transitional Wellness program participates in “Active Aging Week.”
National Active Aging Week is Sept. 30 through Oct. 6. This week-long initiative urges those in their golden years to continue to make the most of what life has to offer through healthy living.
Wellness Center Director Jessica Kearns shared how fitness facilities like Peterson Health’s Wellness Center celebrate Active Aging Week.
“Often we incorporate themed days for patients that come in through the week. Right now, we are launching an awards program to encourage them to stay involved in the program,” says Kearns.
Peterson Health’s Transitional Wellness program offers professional guidance alongside individual fitness training that boosts mobility and increases independence in its patients.
“It’s all about helping our patients progress and stay as independent as possible. It’s a huge benefit to the community to have a resource like the Transitional Wellness program for folks post-therapy to get stronger and invest in their future health,” says Kearns.
Martin Burniston took the investment into his future seriously two years ago when he joined the Transitional Wellness program.
“As we grow older and reach retirement age it is so easy to slip into a sedentary lifestyle which in turn can speed the aging process. The Transitional Wellness Program, such as that offered by Peterson Health in Kerrville, is the perfect solution to fight the dangers of inactivity,” says Burniston.
The staff at Peterson Health’s Wellness Center work conscientiously with patients regarding the physical factors that come with aging. By providing a unique facility for individual exercise with guidance from professionals, the program builds strength and independence within its patients.
Burniston explained why programs that highlight active aging are vital. “After an illness or injury that has required physical therapy, a wellness program helps to build and maintain strength and fitness to combat any decline. At 76 years of age, the wellness program that I am undertaking is helping me to stay active and avoid any potential perils of growing older,” says Burniston.
Programs that support healthy, active lifestyles for older adults are crucial to our community. Kearns explained how resources like the Transitional Wellness program help Kerrville residents over 50 years old.
“A large portion of the population in Kerrville is of retirement age. In that range, we begin to see more falls and diagnoses like arthritis or osteoporosis requiring joint replacements. Having a resource like this that can help strengthen post-therapy and prevent future falls is beneficial,” says Kearns.
The program has been a staple for Kerrville residents looking to stay active and healthy after physical therapy. Currently, the Transitional Wellness program has over 200 active members, logging more than 12,000 exercise sessions cumulatively.
For more information about the Transitional Wellness program offered by Peterson Health, visit their website at https://www.petersonhealth.com/services/outpatient-rehabilitation/transitional-wellness-program/.