This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

YMCA's Virtual Adult Programming Offers Enrichment and Support

Options for fitness, education, networking groups and more.

North Suburban YMCA Adult Program Coordinator Karen Brownlee leads a virtual seated strength exercise workout designed for seniors.
North Suburban YMCA Adult Program Coordinator Karen Brownlee leads a virtual seated strength exercise workout designed for seniors. (North Suburban YMCA)

To keep the community connected, the North Suburban YMCA is offering free virtual classes and connection groups for adults of all ages. All information is available on the Y’s website at www.nsymca.org.

The Y’s popular Adult Education Series continues online with the next free program scheduled on Tuesday, April 28 at 3:00 p.m. Eric Chehab, MD of the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute will discuss options for dealing with orthopedic and musculoskeletal injuries during COVID-19. On Wednesday, April 30 at 10:30 a.m. Alice Chow, MS, RPh, CLTC, LTCP, of KATS Consulting, LLC will talk about how to make the right decision for you or your loved one(s) regarding the best place to age; at home or in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). This program is available on Uber Conference at http://uberconference.com/nsymca or call 847-576-3011. Participants can find more information at www.nsymca.org.

Additional adult online Y programming includes Community Boards where members can interact, get ideas, ask for help, have virtual fun or ask a question. Current boards include Adult Programming featuring Brain games, the NSYMCA Social Club, and the Caregivers Support Group. The Health & Wellness board includes tips, workouts, and a place to get questions answered. There is also a Community Check-In form where people can sign-up to receive a call or make a call to someone who is feeling isolated.

Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

“We know that many members of our community are feeling isolated right now, and we want to be there for them in every way that we can,” commented NSYMCA Adult Program Coordinator Karen Brownlee. “Whether it’s as simple as a phone call to check in or a time to socialize online, we have options to stay connected. In fact, we are hosting a donation drive along with Heart2Heart Coaching and Consulting to get 100 devices (smartphones or tablets) donated by the end of April to give to people in hospitals and nursing homes so that they can ‘see’ their loved ones virtually while sheltering in place.”

Virtual activities specifically designed for seniors include fitness classes, Virtual Walking Buddies, and Walk with a Trainer. There are virtual meetings for caregiver support, as well as a Social Networking Group (in collaboration with Heart2Heart Coaching and Consulting), where the Y brings people together to brainstorm ways to connect with socially isolated adults in the community, discuss current events, books, music, staying healthy, and more.

Find out what's happening in Winnetka-Glencoefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The Y is continually adding new virtual programs. To see the latest information and how to access them, please visit the website at www.nsymca.org. For questions contact Karen Brownlee at kbrownlee@nsymca.org.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Winnetka-Glencoe