Public health programs help seniors stay active

GRINNELL – UnityPoint Health–Grinnell Public Health will offer two free winter fitness activities to keep individuals 55 and older active and warm during the winter months.

Walk with Ease and Bingocize pair light exercise with practical health education in a safe, supportive setting.

“Winter can be cold and isolating for many older adults,” said Brooke Holder, Public Health manager. “These programs give seniors a safe way to stay engaged, keep moving and remain informed without braving the cold, snow and ice that can increase the risk of falls.”

Walk with Ease is a self-guided, community-based program created by the Arthritis Foundation and is proven to reduce pain, increase balance and build confidence over the course of six weeks. This program will be hosted at the Grinnell Area Recreational Center.

The program will begin Jan. 5. Participants will meet up to three times per week.

For more information or to register for the program, visit grinnellrec.activityreg.com, click "Register for Activities", "Programs" and "Search.’ Or call UnityPoint Health - Grinnell Public Health at 641-236-2385, option 2.

Bingocize is a 10-week program that blends light exercise with bingo-style games and health education. Each 45- to 60-minute session is designed to improve range of motion, balance, muscle strength and cardiorespiratory endurance.

Classes will meet twice a week at Public Health at 306 Fourth Ave. in Grinnell beginning Jan. 5.

To register for Bingocize, call Public Health at 641-236-2385, option 2.