Bracebridge offering free seniors programs

From the Town of Bracebridge:

The Town of Bracebridge has received funding from the Government of Ontario – Seniors Community Grant program allowing the Recreation Department to offer programs to seniors aged 60 years and over for free. Welcome Back to Recreation – We missed you, is the focus and theme of the grant.

Social isolation is a concern for many people especially those who may already be isolated due to living conditions and current society issues. Physical activity is associated with mental health and wellbeing which is an important part of healthy living.

Staff at the Bracebridge Sportsplex have designed programming specific for seniors in February and March which includes:

* Six (6) Welcome Back Sessions including Try-it classes for Fitness, Tai Chi, Introduction to
Pickleball, Aqua cycle, the Walking Track and the walking track’s cardio equipment;

*Four (4) Senior Socials with a special guest speaker, refreshments, snacks and games during the
scheduled social time; and

*Three (3) First Aid Clinics created for educational purposes to help seniors be prepared in case of
an emergency. These are not certification courses and there are no tests.

In addition, for anyone interacting with older adults, the Bracebridge Recreation Department is offering a HIGH FIVE – Principles of Healthy Aging course. This is a certification course to learn insights into the unique needs of older adults and how to improve their experience. Topics covered include, ageism, program planning, the importance of movement in sustained long-term health, increased social connectedness, improved mental and physical well-being and a better quality of life.

While on-line registration is preferred www.bracebridge.ca/OnlineRegistration, registrations will also be accepted over the phone by calling (705) 645-3037. All programs and activities are free however, preregistration is required. A calendar of events can be found at www.bracebridge.ca/Seniors.