According to the CDC, there are many benefits to being physically active as people get older. According to the CDC, about one in four adults ages 50 and older are inactive. A program in the Mohawk Valley has taken unique approach to keep seniors out and about.

What You Need To Know

  •  The Mohawk Valley Institute for Learning in Retirement (MVILR) engages senior citizens socially and through education

  • Some of the courses they offer include Conversational French, People’s Law School, Be Fit, Strong and Balanced, and An Examination of Cultural Norms Through Film

  • The National Institute on Aging says there are benefits to being physically, mentally and socially active as we age

At a recent a open house event for the Mohawk Valley Institute for Learning in Retirement, students Mary Ann Recor and Suzanne DeLaire share there experience of being involved with the institute since approximately 2010.

“I have a whole group of friends. When I came down here, it was just me. I didn't know anybody in the area," Recor said.

DeLaire is a student and is on the board.

“I've learned mah-jongg, card making ... just areas of interest that you can take with you and continue to use," said DeLaire.

MVILR is a non-profit organization providing social and educational opportunities for local seniors. Some of the courses offered include Conversational French, People’s Law School, Be Fit, Strong and Balanced, and An Examination of Cultural Norms Through Film.

“You look around at the room we're in today and you just have a brain explosion of experience and knowledge, and people are willing to share that. So it's not so much me teaching you, but all of us teaching one another," said Beverly Quist, a facilitator for MVILR.

“There's no homework to it. We don't have tasks. It's just for us to get more interest, more knowledge," said Recor.

The National Institute on Aging’s website notes that being physically active as we age can help improve strength and balance; lead to more energy; reduce depression; and help prevent or delay heart disease and diabetes.

“Rather than sitting in and watching the four walls, get out there. Learn something new," said DeLaire.

The National Institute on Aging also states the importance of older adults managing stress. They encourage people to regularly exercise, write in a journal, try relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, and to stay positive.