Senior Expo
JOIN US AT THE
2025 Fall
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8TH
9AM TO 2PM
THIS YEAR’S FALL SENIOR EXPO IS A FREE, FUN AND INFORMATIVE EVENT PACKED WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, GIVEAWAYS AND LOCAL VENDORS FROM HOME IMPROVEMENT, RECREATION, FINANCE, HEALTH & FITNESS PRODUCTS, AND SERVICES AND SO MUCH MORE TO LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!
BRING YOUR SNEAKERS & DANCING SHOES!
9:15-9:45 AM - BALANCE IN MOTION WITH SHELLY MOWERY
10:00-10:30: GREATER MIDLAND ROCK STEADY BOXING
10:45-11:15: ZUMBA WITH TRENA WINANS 11:30-12:00: LINE DANCING 12:30-2:00: LIVE MUSIC - THE CEYX BAND
PLUS BRING YOUR UNWANTED OR UNUSED PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR SAFE DISPOSAL!
SPONSORED BY •
October Fitness Classes
AT TRAILSIDE IN BIRCHWOOD
Monday:
8:15am - 9:15am ~ Zumba
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Balanced in Motion
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Bonesaver
12:15pm - 1:15pm ~ Fit & Sit with Dana
Tuesday:
9:30-10:30
8:15am - 9:15am ~ Zumba
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Calming Yoga with Julie
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Fall Prevention & Balance Class
Wednesday:
8:15am - 9:15am ~ Zumba
8:15am - 9:15am ~ Zumba
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Calming Yoga with Julie
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Fall Prevention & Balance Class
12:15pm - 1:15pm ~ Fit & Sit with Dana
Friday: 9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Balanced in Motion
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Bonesaver AT TRAILSIDE
Tuesday: 9:30am - 10:30am ~ Int. Line Dancing
Tuesday: 9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Balanced in Motion
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Essential Mat Pilates
Wednesday: 9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Balanced in Motion
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Bonesaver 12pm - 1pm ~ Line Dance 10/22
Thursday:
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Balanced in Motion
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Int. Mat Pilates
8:15am ~ Walking Group 10:00 - 10:55am ~ OTAGO AT MILLS
Greater Midland North Family Center facilitates the Silver Sneakers Class; Group Exercise is a free drop-in program.
Monday: 9:00am - 9:55am ~ Silver Sneakers
Tuesday: 10:45am - 11:15am ~ Group Exercise
Senior Services offers numerous ways to stay on top of your health each month with health education programs and an array of fitness classes, low-cost clinics and access to fitness equipment. This schedule is packed with a wide variety of fitness opportunities for all experience levels! Group Exercise at Mills and the Walking Group at Greendale Centers is free of charge and does not require registration.
Senior Services offers numerous ways to stay on top of your health each month with health education programs and an array of fitness classes, low-cost clinics and access to fitness equipment. This schedule is packed with a wide variety of fitness opportunities for all experience levels! Group Exercise at Mills and Greendale Centers is free of charge and does not require registration.
8:15 am
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Chair Yoga with Steve
9:30am - 10:30 am ~ Beg. Line Dancing
10:45am - 11:45am ~ Bonesaver
Thursday: 9:30am - 10:30am ~ Adv. Line Dancing
Friday: 9:30am - 10:30am ~ Int. Line Dancing
12pm - 1pm ~ Beginner Mat Pilates
AT
GREENDALE
Walking Group is a free drop-in program. Meet in the Gym.
Monday:
8:15am ~ Walking Group
At Mills (Greater Midland North Family Center facilitates the Silver Sneakers class; Group Exercise is a free drop-in program) 9-9:55 am Silver Sneakers
12:15pm - 1:15pm ~ Beginner / Int. Tai Chi
AT SANFORD
Wednesday: 10:45am - 11:15am ~ Group Exercise
Instructor Vacations: No Chair Yoga Oct 1 and 3. No Tai Chi Oct 1. No Fit & Sit Oct 9. No Pilates, Calming Yoga or Fall Prevention & Balance on Oct 14.
Thursday: 1:00pm - 1:55pm ~ Silver Sneakers
To register for OTAGO contact: 989-774-1350 or 989-774-2715, Email: fallprevention@ cmich.edu
Friday: 10:45am - 11:15am ~ Group Exercise
Instructor Vacations: No Chair Yoga Oct 1 and 3. No Tai Chi Oct 1. No Fit & Sit Oct 9. No Pilates, Calming Yoga or Fall Prevention & Balance on Oct 14. To register for OTAGO contact: 989-774-1350 or 989-774-2715, Email: fallprevention@cmich.edu To register for Silver Sneakers contact Emma Warren at 989-6897770 or ewarren@greatermidland.org
Thursday:
Monday: 10:45am - 11:45am ~ Bonesaver
Wednesday: 8:15am ~ Walking Group
10:45-11:15 am Group Exercise Group Exercise Group Exercise 1-1:55 pm Silver Sneakers
Friday:
More Classes Available! Call or Go Online
To register for Silver Sneakers Contact Emma Warren at 989-689-7770 or EWARREN@ GREATERMIDLAND.ORG
For all other classes, Call 989-633-3700
For all other classes, Call 989-633-3700 or sign-up online at SeniorServicesMidland.org
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Greater Midland: Rock Steady Boxing
Helping Those Who Have Parkinson’s
Rock Steady Boxing Greater Midland is an affiliate of Rock Steady Boxing, Inc. RSB, Inc. was co-founded in 2006 by Scott C. Newman, a former Marion County Prosecutor diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s at age 40, and his friend, former Golden Gloves boxer, Vincent Perez. After experiencing dramatic improvements in Newman’s health through intense, one-on-one boxing training, the two began offering similar programs to others with Parkinson’s, which quickly expanded into a national movement.
In 2016, Rock Steady Boxing Mid-Michigan was founded and ready to face the unmet need in the community. It could help fill the need in our community and serve those with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. In 2024, the program had grown beyond one person’s ability to run and was endowed to Greater Midland to keep the program going.
In 2025, the program became Rock Steady Boxing Greater Midland and continues to provide a safe and supportive space where participants fight back against Parkinson’s with intensity, dedication, and camaraderie. RSB offers a close-knit community that encourages dignity, humor, and emotional support while living with the constant challenge of a progressive and incurable disease. These programs have been shown to not only improve quality of life but potentially delay the progression of symptoms. According to the University of Michigan Neurology Department, our state has seen a rising number of cases, which has contributed to a great-
er need for programs like ours.
Rock Steady Boxing Greater Midland is making a difference in the lives of people with Parkinson’s, and with your support we can continue to provide hope, strength, and community to even more people in need.
Testimonials
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2021 and have been going to Rock Steady Boxing for 1.5 years, as fighter Iron Grandma. This program has definitely helped to slow down the advancement of my symptoms and for me to “still do it while I can”. I can apply the skills worked on in RSB to my life adventures, such as when I had to cross a log like a balance beam while I trekked through rice terraces in Vietnam this past spring, or when I needed the strength & balance to climb 500 stairs. I am physically able to donate my time locally to Open Door, Mobile Food Truck, & the hospital Eucharistic Ministry. I love RSB & how it makes me feel physically & emotionally!
I’ve been going to Rock Steady Boxing for quite a while now and I really enjoy it. I’ve got Parkinson’s and it is helping me quite a lot. I am in a wheelchair most days now when I come, as my legs don’t want to work in the mornings, but I get to see friends and get to do exercises that are helping me to get strength in my arms and flexibility to do more things. The camaraderie with the other fighters also helps me to want to do better than I think I can do. I usually feel better when I leave, than when I get there.
Our team is focused on providing quality home health care designed to keep you safely in the comfort of your own home.
us keep you at home.
Seasons Adult Day Health Services: A Compassionate Alternative to Long-Term Care
Caring for a loved one with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or a chronic illness is one of the most profound acts of love and devotion. At the same time, it can bring unique challenges and questions, especially when considering what type of care best supports both your loved one and you as their care partner. For many families, the decision often comes down to staying at home versus moving to a long-term care facility. But there is another option worth considering: Seasons Adult Day Health Services.
A SAFE, ENRICHING ENVIRONMENT
Seasons is a therapeutic enrichment program offered during the day in a comfortable, supportive group setting. Open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Seasons provides a safe and engaging space for individuals living with memory changes, dementia, or chronic illness.
Participants benefit from social interaction, meaningful activities, and a caring staff that understands their unique needs.
The environment is designed not only to ensure safety and comfort but also to encourage joy, conversation, and purpose each day. For care partners, this means peace of mind knowing that their loved one is in good hands while they take time to rest, work, or manage other responsibilities.
BENEFITS FOR YOUR LOVED ONE—AND FOR YOU
One of the most powerful benefits of Seasons is its ability to enhance the quality of life. Through stimulating activities, participants often maintain—or even improve— their physical and cognitive abilities. Structured therapeutic programs include:
• Memory training, reminiscence, and life skills
• Creative arts, music, and technology use
• Physical exercise, cooking, baking, and horticulture
• Social discussion groups and community outings
Beyond daily engagement, Seasons also provides comprehensive health support. Nursing staff offer routine health assessments, memory and depression screenings, medication assistance, diabetic management, oxygen therapy, dietary support, and coordination with other health providers such as physical, occupational, or speech therapists. This blend of medical monitoring and therapeutic programming helps keep participants healthier, more active, and connected.
Care partners also benefit greatly. By knowing their loved one is safe and cared for, they gain essential respite—a chance to rest, recharge, and continue their care-
giving journey with renewed energy.
COST-EFFECTIVE CARE
Long-term care can be overwhelming not only emotionally, but financially. According to recent data, the average annual cost for care in the U.S. is:
• Nursing Home Care (24 hrs/day): $127,752
• Home Care (44 hrs/wk): $77,796
• Assisted Living (24 hrs/day): $70,800
• Adult Day Services (8 hrs/day, 5 days/ wk): $19,200
Seasons provides a fraction of the cost of other options while delivering personalized medical, social, and emotional support. Flexible scheduling is available at:
• 2 hours: $30
• 4 hours: $60
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• Full day: $80
For many families, this makes Seasons not only the most affordable but also the most holistic choice. And to help new families get started, two free trial days are offered to experience the program firsthand.
THE DIFFERENCE SEASONS CAN MAKE
Choosing care for your loved one is never easy, but you don’t have to choose between keeping them at home or moving them into a facility. Seasons bridges that gap by combining expert care, enriching activities, and meaningful connections, all while allowing your loved one to continue living at home.
Families who choose Seasons often find that their loved ones enjoy better health, more social engagement, and a brighter outlook on life, while care partners feel supported and less overwhelmed.
If you’re looking for a safe, compassionate, and cost-effective option that values both you and your loved one, Seasons Adult Day Health Services may be the answer.
Senior Services
LUNCHTIME LEARNERS:
Aging & Your Pelvic Floor with Olivia Shelton Fri, Oct 3 • 12-1 pm • TrailsideTrailside
Discover practical tips and exercises for maintaining pelvic floor health and managing bladder and bowel changes as you age.
FLU AND COVID-19 VACCINATION DRIVE-THRU CLINIC Fri, Oct 3 • 1-4 pm • Drive-Thru at Trailside
For those planning to attend, to avoid congestion at the event, please plan to attend during the following times with Last Names starting with: A - F 1-2 pm, G - M 2-3 pm, N - Z 3-4 pm
SUPPORT: STROKE SUPPORT GROUP Mon, Oct 6 • 2-3:30 pm
BLIND & LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP Mon, Oct 13 • 10:30-11:30 am
PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP Mon, Oct 13 • 3-4:30 pm
CARE PARTNER SUPPORT GROUP Tues, Oct 14 & 28 • 10-11:45 am
• Open to stroke survivors, those at risk, and care partners. This monthly group offers education, sharing, and support with expert-led discussions and breakout sessions.
• Gain resources, advice, and support for navigating vision loss. • Education and peer support for those affected by Parkinson’s. • Support for care partners managing stress and challenges. Drop-in, no registration required.
ART OF THE MATTER: CLAUDE MONET Tues, Oct 7 • 10:30-11:30 am • Trailside
Learn about Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism, and how his innovative techniques transformed the art world by capturing light, nature, and fleeting moments.
TECH CLASSES WITH SENIOR PLANET
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR IPHONE (WORKSHOP) Thurs, Oct 9 • 12:30-2 pm • Trailside
AI ALL AROUND (LECTURE) Tues, Oct 14 • 12-1 pm • Trailside
INTRO TO CHATTING WITH AI (WORKSHOP) Thurs, Oct 28 • 12:30-2 pm • Trailside
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR ANDROID PHONE (LECTURE) Tues, Oct 30 • 12-1pm • Trailside
Empowering you with hope, healing and health. D r. Ryan Balzer
• Learn key iPhone features, touchscreen tips, settings, and security basics in this hands-on session. Bring your iPhone! • Explore how AI is used in everyday digital tools and learn about privacy considerations while using these technologies. • Learn where AI tools show up online, how they can make tasks easier, and what to keep in mind when using them safely. • Discover key Android phone features, controls, and security tips in this hands-on class. Bring your Android device to participate.
HEALTHY HINTS: FALL OVERNIGHT OATS Wed, Oct 8 • 10:30-11:30 am • Trailside
Learn how to make fiber-rich overnight oats with seasonal flavors to support digestion, heart health, and healthy aging.
GALLIVANT GROUP: CELEBRATE NATIONAL DESSERT DAY AT CHEF SERGEY’S! Tues, Oct 14 • 2 pm
Enjoy scratch-made European pastries, coffee, and the story behind a unique local bakery that values community and fair wages. RSVP by Oct 9th! 136 Ashman Circle • Midland
CIVIL WAR AND RECONSTRUCTION: PRESIDENTIAL RECONSTRUCTIONSUMMER TO FALL 1865 Thurs, Oct 23 • 10:15-11:30 am • Trailside
Explore President Andrew Johnson’s lenient Reconstruction policies and how they shaped post–Civil War America with educator Mike Trebilcock.
LUNCHTIME LEARNERS
Emotional Well-Being in Later Life: Finding Connection, Purpose, & ResilienceLife: Resilience Fri, Oct 17 • 12-1 pm • Trailside• Trailside
Join Jason Melvin for an interactive workshop on emotional health, exploring ways to build resilience, connection, and meaning in later life.
TRAVEL & ADVENTURE: CORNWALL & WEST ENGLAND WITH RICK STEVES Mon, Oct 27 • 12-1 pm • Trailside
Take a virtual journey through England’s West Country, exploring charming villages, pirates’ towns, prehistoric stone circles, and Cornish culture.
CARE PARTNER CLASS - DEMYSTIFYING DEMENTIA: WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW Tues, Oct 28 • 2-4 pm • TrailsideTrailside
Join Trena Winans for an essential overview of dementia, covering symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and caregiving basics for both new and experienced care partners.
Greater Midland: Travel is Going Places
Travel season is in full swing at Greater Midland, and by the end of 2025, our Community Center travelers will have enjoyed four extended trips and five exciting day trips. Just last month, we took nearly 100 adventurers on a scenic journey through Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, where we soaked in the region’s charm, natural beauty, and built lasting friendships along the way.
Motorcoach trips offer a stress-free and social way to travel. With every detail fully planned and hosted, all you need to do is relax and enjoy the ride.
“The trips I’ve gone on have given me the chance to explore Michigan without the
stress of driving or planning,” shares one frequent senior traveler.
“I stepped out of my comfort zone and joined a Motorcoach trip for the first time — it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I can’t wait for the next one!” says a first-time group traveler.
The only trip you’ll regret is the one you don’t take! All trips are fully escorted and depart by Motorcoach right from Midland.
Call (989) 488-6401 or email jstopka@ greatermidland.org to get added to our travel email list and stay in the loop on upcoming adventures!
Pancake Breakfast for Seniors
Since 2017, the Greater Midland Community Center and Right At Home have teamed up to bring seniors together through our beloved Community Pancake Breakfast events. Held every other month, these gatherings offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere where seniors can relax, enjoy a delicious meal, and connect with others in the Midland community. Whether you come with a friend or on your own, you’re sure to feel
right at home! Our next Senior Pancake Breakfast will take place on Monday, November 10th at 11:00 AM in the Curling Center Clubhouse. The cost is just $3 for members and $5 for guests, and we’ll wrap up the morning with fun prize drawings.
Seating is limited, so be sure to RSVP at least one week in advance. Call (989) 923-4622 or stop by the Welcome Desk to register in person. We can’t wait to see you there!
Greater Midland: Community Center Offers Insurance Benefits
Did You Know You Could Get a Free Membership at Greater Midland Community Center?
Greater Midland Community Center proudly participates in SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, and One Pass™
— three of the most common insurance-based fitness benefits in our region. If you’re 65 or older and enrolled in a qualifying Medicare Advantage plan, you may already be eligible! That means you can enjoy all the incredible amenities at the Community Center — completely FREE.
Your no-cost membership includes full access to:
• All Group Fitness Classes
• The Wellness Center
• Indoor Walking Track
• 24/7 Fitness Center (during regular building hours)
• Walking Club
• Multiuse Pool, Spa & Sauna
• Court Sports
Plus, insurance participants can take part in workshops, check-in challenges with prizes, and plenty of opportunities to socialize and build lasting friendships. At Greater Midland, we don’t just offer fitness — we foster community.
And it’s not just the Community Center! The North Family Center and Coleman Family Center also accept SilverSneakers®, Renew Active®, and One Pass™. You’re welcome at all three locations — all at no cost to you.
Open Enrollment is Almost Here!
Before you choose your Medicare Advantage plan, make sure it includes fitness benefits — you could qualify for a free Greater Midland membership. It’s a great time to prioritize your health and well-being.
Many people qualify and don’t even know it.
• Community Activity Pass (including Euchre, Mah Jongg, and Billiards)
Call Amanda Ewald, Active Older Adult Program Coordinator, at (989) 220-3997 to check your eligibility today!
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Generations Connect
Connecting preschool children with older adults offers powerful mutual benefits that enrich both age groups. Young children bring energy, curiosity, and joy, which can uplift seniors emotionally, combat feelings of loneliness, and even improve cognitive function. In turn, seniors provide patience, wisdom, and life experience, fostering a sense of stability and respect in young learners. These intergenerational interactions can help children develop empathy, social skills, and a deeper understanding of aging, while giving older adults a renewed sense of purpose and connection. Together, they build bridges across generations that strengthen communities and create meaningful relationships.
JOIN US THIS FALL FOR 3 GENERATIONS CONNECT EVENTS!
The Community Center is excited to host a
series of 3 Generations Connect events this Fall. Fun, hands-on activities designed to bring seniors and kids together for creative connection.
• October 30 – Paint a pumpkin and create a festive Fall art project.
• November 20 – Make pumpkin playdough and craft your own turkey masterpiece.
• December 11 – Get into the holiday spirit by building your very own gingerbread house.
All events begin at 11:00 AM and are completely free, including all supplies. Participants will be paired with a child for a meaningful and memorable experience.
We’re looking for seniors to help make these events a success—come join the fun and make a difference in a child’s day! Call 989.923.4622 or register in-person at the Community Center!
If you lost your loved one today, would you be prepared?
C ontact your Wilson Miller Planning Professional and Start Planning Today.
4210 N. Saginaw Rd. Midland, MI 48640 (989) 839-9966 www.wilson-miller.com
Seniors Activıties within the Greater Midland Community Center
Community Activity Pass- $85 annually without a membership. Community Activity pass is included in SilverSneakesrs®, Renew Active®/One Pass™ or any paid membership.
MAH JONGG
Tuesdays & Thursdays 1:00pm - 3:00pm
EUCHRE
Monday & Wednesday 1:00pm - 4:00pm
All levels welcome. No partner needed.
DUPLICATE BRIDGE
Monday & Wednesday 12:30pm
Additional fees may apply
LINE DANCING
Tuesday & Thursday from 11:00am – 12:30pm Led by a volunteer.
WALKING CLUB
Tuesday & Thursday from 9-9:55am
BILLIARDS/POOL
Billiard tables available during regular building hours.
PUZZLE
Puzzle available during regular building hours.
What You Get Back When You Give Your Time: The Surprising Benefits of Volunteering
When we think of volunteering, it’s natural to focus on how those in need benefit. That’s very important. But there’s another side to that story: the profound, measurable benefits volunteers themselves receive. At Senior Services of Midland County, our volunteers tell us they feel needed, valued, socially connected—and research confirms these are more than just warm feelings. They are real improvements in health, well-being, longevity, and life satisfaction.
Here’s a look at what volunteering can do for you, whether you’re working, retired, or somewhere in between, and especially why helping older adults is a uniquely rich way to give and gain.
HEALTH & LONGEVITY
Volunteering is good for your body as well as your soul. Research consistently shows that people who volunteer live longer and feel better.
• A major review found that volunteering is associated with a 25% lower mortality rate, meaning volunteers tend to live longer lives compared to those who don’t volunteer (Anderson et al., 2023).
• Physical benefits include reduced blood pressure and lower risk of chronic conditions like heart disease (Stanford Center on Longevity, 2024).
• Even modest levels of physical volunteering—like walking or delivering meals—can slow age-related physical decline.
MENTAL HEALTH & EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING
The benefits for mental health are profound, especially for older adults:
• Older adults who volunteer regularly have a 43% lower risk of depression (Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 2023).
ule or enjoying retirement, volunteering offers flexibility and meaningful engagement:
volunteer or call 989-633-3741.
• Working professionals can give just 1–2 hours per week, reducing stress and broadening social connections.
• Volunteers report lower stress, greater happiness, and a deeper sense of purpose.
• Regular volunteering helps reduce loneliness, a serious health risk linked to higher rates of illness and early death (National Institutes of Health, 2024).
THE BENEFITS AT A GLANCE
Below is a snapshot of how volunteering impacts health and well-being, based on recent research:
WHY IT MATTERS FOR WORKING PEOPLE & RETIREES
Whether you’re balancing a busy work sched-
• Retirees gain purpose, daily structure, and opportunities to stay physically and mentally active.
• Even small, consistent acts of service, like one weekly meal delivery, create meaningful personal benefits.
Volunteer Opportunities in Midland County Senior Services offers roles that fit a
variety of skills and schedules:
• Transportation Drivers: Provide rides to appointments and errands, ensuring independence for older adults.
• Friendly Visitors & Shoppers: Spend just an hour a week visiting, calling, or helping with errands.
• Senior Safety Team: Make minor home repairs to improve safety.
• Meals on Wheels Drivers: Deliver meals and brighten someone’s day—with mileage reimbursement and a free lunch.
For details, visit SeniorServicesMidland.org/
When you give your time, you’re not just helping others, you’re improving your own health, happiness, and quality of life. Whether you volunteer once a week or a few hours a month, the rewards are clear: longer life, better health, and a stronger connection to your community.
Join us in making Midland County a place where every older adult—and every volunteer— can thrive!
REFERENCES
1. Anderson, L., et al. (2023). The health benefits of volunteering: An umbrella review of systematic evidence. National Institutes of Health. Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ articles/PMC10159229/
2. Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. (2023). Volunteering may reduce odds of depression in older adults. Link: https://www.publichealth. columbia.edu/news/volunteering-may-reduce-odds-older-adult-depression
3. Stanford Center on Longevity. (2024). Engaging in volunteerism may hold significant health benefits. Link: https://longevity.stanford.edu/engaging-in-volunteerism-may-hold-significant-health-benefits/
4. National Institutes of Health. (2024). Social isolation and loneliness: Understanding risks and solutions. Link: https://www. nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/social-isolation-loneliness-epidemic
5. Tahoe Forest Health System. (2024). Health benefits of volunteering: Live longer and thrive. Link: https://www.tfhd.com/ news/health-benefits-of-volunteering-livelonger-and-thrive
Get There with Care: Transportation ServıcesThat Make a Difference in Midland County
When getting from place to place starts to feel like a challenge, we’re here to lend a hand — and a ride. Our Transportation Department proudly offers door-to-door rides across Midland County for residents aged 60 and older. Whether it’s a medical visit or a grocery run, we’re committed to keeping you mobile, independent, and connected to your community.
WHERE CAN WE TAKE YOU?
Medical Appointments: Healthcare comes first. We prioritize your trips to the doctor, dentist, therapist, or other medical professionals.
Drive-Thru Pharmacy Pick-Ups: Got a prescription ready? We can take you through the drive-thru to pick them up — quick, easy, and convenient. *Client must be present and prescriptions must be ready for pick-up.
scription ready? We can take you through
neighbors helping neighbors.
How to Schedule Your Ride Call: 989-633-3745
Schedule at least 24 hours in advance
Service Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:15 am to 4:15 pm
• Last in-town pick-up: 4:15 pm
• Last out-of-town pick-up: 4 pm
“This service has made my life so much happier. It helps with my freedom of independence greatly.” — Transportation Client
AFFORDABLE & ACCESSIBLE
Foot Care Clinic at Senior Services: We’ll make sure you don’t miss these important appointments to keep your feet healthy and strong.
Activity & Dining Centers: With five locations throughout Midland County, these centers offer more than a hot lunch — they’re hubs for fun, friendship, education, fitness, and special events. Let us help you stay active and engaged.
hubs for fun, friendship, education, fitness,
Grocery Stores & Shopping Plazas: Stock up on essentials or enjoy shopping — we’ve got the ride covered.
Business Appointments: Legal meeting? Bank visit? Tax prep appointment? We’ll get you there reliably and on time.
Grocery Pick-Up & Delivery: Shop online, schedule your pick-up, and we’ll handle the
rest. Want to come along? You’re welcome! Just remember, our drivers can’t come inside your home to help put the groceries away.
WHY RIDE WITH US?
“Arm to Lean On” Service: Our trained volunteer drivers offer door-to-door support, providing a steady arm and a friendly face every
step of the way.
Safe & Comfortable Rides: Our fleet includes four wheelchair-accessible vans and four SUVs, making comfort and accessibility a priority.
Drivers Who Care: Our team of caring volunteers is trained in service and safety. They’re
$3.50 per one-way ride ($7 round trip)
Billed monthly for your convenience
Available to Midland County residents aged 60+
A FEW IMPORTANT NOTES
Medical appointments are prioritized. We do not provide pick-up from:
• Surgeries involving anesthesia
• Emergency room or urgent care visits
• Hospital releases, Assisted Living or 24hour care facilities
We do not transport pets unless it is a service animal.
Our drivers do not remain with you during your appointment.
From essential errands to enriching experiences, our Transportation Department is here to help you stay connected, safe, and supported. Let’s get you where you need to go — with care!
Keep Moving, Stay Well: Why Health & Fitness Really Ma
Aging is natural. But it doesn’t have to mean slowing down in ways that reduce your joy, independence, or health. If you’re 50 or over and living in Midland County, staying active isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s one of the best investments you can make in yourself.
Here’s what the science says: why moving, eating, learning, and taking care of yourself matter more than ever, and what you can do right here at Senior Services to feel better, stronger, and more connected.
WHY FITNESS, NUTRITION, & WELLNESS AFTER 50 MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE
You might think that slowing down is inevitable. Some changes are—but we also have much more control than many believe. Stay-
ing active, eating well, and caring for mental and social health can help you:
• Avoid or manage chronic disease. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024a).
• Maintain strength, mobility, and balance. This is essential not just for doing daily activities, but also for preventing falls and staying independent (Sherrington et al., 2022).
• Support mental health and cognition. Exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression while improving sleep and memory, keeping you mentally sharp (CDC, 2024a).
• Enhance overall quality of life. Staying
er After 50
active gives you more energy, helps you stay socially connected, and makes everyday life more enjoyable.
CURRENT GUIDELINES: WHAT EXPERTS RECOMMEND
The CDC recommends that adults ages 65 and older get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like brisk walking or dancing, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, or a mix of both (CDC, 2024b).
In addition, older adults should do muscle-strengthening exercises at least two days per week, and include balance-focused activities to reduce the risk of falls (American Heart Association, 2024). Even light activity counts, and it’s okay to start small—some activity is always better than none (CDC, 2024c).
HOW MIDLAND COUNTY OFFERS HEALTH & FITNESS PROGRAMS FOR YOU
You don’t have to go far or spend much to stay active. Senior Services provides a variety of fitness classes and wellness programs designed specifically for adults in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. These programs are affordable, adaptable, and fun, making it easier to stick with a routine.
Program: Why It Helps
Zumba Gold: Low-impact dance that improves cardiovascular health, strength, and balance—while having fun to music!
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Balanced in Motion (Walk15)/Line Dancing: Aerobic exercise with simple movements.
Bonesaver: Strength training to help prevent osteoporosis and build strong bones and muscles.
Fit & Sit / Chair Yoga: Gentle exercise for those who need to stay seated while improving flexibility and strength.
Calming Yoga / Tai Chi / Fall Prevention & Balance: Improves flexibility, relaxation, and balance—critical for fall prevention.
OTAGO: Social, fun, and proven to reduce fall risk by up to 40% (Sherrington et al., 2022).
TIPS FOR STAYING CONSISTENT & SAFE
1. Start slow. Begin with 10–15 minutes of activity and increase gradually.
2. Mix it up. Combine aerobic, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises for maximum benefits.
3. Listen to your body. Mild soreness is okay, but pain means you should ease up or adjust.
4. Stay social. Exercising with friends or in a class keeps you motivated and connected.
5. Pair movement with nutrition. Good food fuels your body and supports your fitness goals.
WHAT YOU’LL LIKELY NOTICE OVER TIME
By making physical activity a regular part of your routine, you may experience:
• Improved energy and stamina
• Better balance and fewer near-falls
• More restful sleep and reduced stress
• Stronger muscles and better posture
• Greater confidence and connection to your community
YOU DESERVE TO MOVE WELL & LIVE WELL
It’s never too late to begin—or to return to—a healthier lifestyle. What counts most is taking that first step, no matter how small. Senior Services offers a supportive, welcoming place to get moving, learn new skills, and take charge of your health.
To find the right class or program for you, visit SeniorServicesMidland.org/fitness-calendar/ or call 989-633-3700 today. Your body, your mind, and your future self will thank you.
REFERENCES
• American Heart Association. (2024). Recommendations for physical activity in adults and older adults. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024a). Benefits of physical activity for older adults. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/benefits
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024b). How much physical activity older adults need. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/older-adults
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024c). What counts as physical activity for older adults. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/adding-older-adults
• Sherrington, C., et al. (2022). Exercise for preventing falls in older people: Updated systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 56(15), 883-891. Retrieved from https://bjsm. bmj.com/content/56/15/883
