Hospital Helps Seniors Stay Fit During Pandemic

While life during the COVID-19 pandemic has been especially isolating for older people, they need to find a way to keep moving and stay fit. Suburban Hospital, a community-based, not-for-profit hospital in Bethesda, Maryland, and member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, offers a weekly exercise program called Senior Shape for active older adult patients.

The Senior Shape program has been making it easier for older adults to exercise in the comfort of their homes using Zoom. Approximately 60% of the older population affiliated with the hospital has used the virtual exercise program to maintain strength, balance and flexibility. That helps participants reduce their risk of falling, strengthen their immune system and improve quality of life — all while having fun.

"I can't express how much I am thankful for these classes." said one participant. "They make my week and help me know what day it is. I also get to stay in some sort of shape. So a million thank-yous don't seem to be enough."

Another participant shared: "This is a stressful time for everyone, but especially for us self-isolated seniors. It is a real comfort to be able to continue with the routine of our aerobics class, enabling us to connect with friends and have some sense of normalcy."

With a little encouragement and creativity, Suburban Hospital is showing older people that they can stay healthy and safe during the coronavirus pandemic, while getting the exercise — and companionship — they need.