| Nashwauk Community Fund Supports Bone Builders with a 2017 Grant February 21, 2018
Bone Builders, a program of ElderCircle, helps to maintain the independence of older adults by linking them and their caregivers to services, which enable them to stay in their homes longer. Bone Builders is a no-impact, non-aerobic exercise program designed for older adults to build muscle and improve bone density, which can help prevent/reverse osteoporosis. Surveys indicate other health benefits including improved balance and flexibility, increased physical strength and energy, and improved overall health. Bone Builders also offers socialization for older adults who may otherwise be isolated and lonely. Bone Builders is designed for both the active older adult to maintain fitness and activity levels and prevent/delay the physical effects of aging, and for less active adults to increase and/or regain physical strength, balance, and flexibility so they can remain independent in their own homes. Program Activities include twice a week, 90-minute sessions with light exercises, stretching, balancing exercises and social events. There is no cost for participants or volunteers with all materials, weights, training, and supplies provided by ElderCircle. Sessions are led by volunteers age 55 and older. Volunteer training and refresher courses are held twice a year. Bone Builders currently serves about 180 Itasca County participants at ten area locations. The average participant age is 73. |
