A gathering for adults to engage and focus on physical and mental wellness
Tuesday, Sept. 20 —RUTLAND — The Godnick Adult Center, a Rutland Recreation & Parks facility, announced that it will be hosting an event to celebrate the changing of the seasons with the theme of Better Together.
“This is a chance to bring people together to connect with local service organizations and test out a variety of wellness programs,” said April Cioffi, program director at the Godnick Adult Center. “The event is being held during Falls Prevention Awareness Week with an effort to expose older adults in our community to opportunities available to them right here in this area. Physical activity is one of the ways to help reduce the risk of falling by increasing strength, flexibility, and balance. Even a minor increase in physical activity can make a difference.”
The fall celebration will include engaging demonstration sessions in classes currently available at the Godnick Adult Center such as sit-and-be-fit, a chair exercise class with Melissa Cox. There are also chances to try movers and shakers, tai chi, and meditation. Movers and shakers, a low-impact class originally designed with exercises specifically for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, but open to anyone, is offered twice a week at the Godnick Adult Center. Tai chi, an evidence-based program to improve balance, is offered throughout the state, and through SVCOA classes are available at no cost throughout the year in southwestern Vermont.
In addition, the event will offer educational sessions on services available for adults in the area through SVCOA and Rutland Recreation & Parks. Attendees will have a chance to connect with representatives from local service organizations and non-profits in the morning during the coffee and community connections sessions, as well as throughout the day.
Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging has collaborated with physical therapists to bring Stay Steady Vermont screenings to the event. “Stay Steady Vermont assessment appointments will screen individuals for fall risk and provide education to support behavior change and help reduce the risk of falls. Appointment spots are 15 minutes in length and can be scheduled at the time of event registration. We are excited to have this STEADI assessment available to our community members, especially as we head into the colder months.” said Cioffi.
Call 802-773-1853 or visit: rutlandrec.com/godnick.
