by June Portnoy
As we age, maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. At the Neshaminy Activity Center in Trevose, adults 55 and older find a welcoming environment to engage in fitness classes, socialize, and stay mentally stimulated. According to Director Robin Schenk, staying active is more than just about achieving physical health; it can also lead to a sense of community, purpose, and overall happiness. “The more seniors move, the better off they are,” she says. “We see that people who stay active have better balance, they fall less often, and they seem happier.”
The Neshaminy Activity Center offers a variety of fitness classes tailored to different levels of ability, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to participate and benefit. Chair exercise is a popular low-impact workout that takes place three times a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 am. Participants follow along with video instructors, with an optional use of weights to increase intensity. Typically attended by 8 to 10 individuals, the class open to both members and non-members at no cost. “I just asked someone how she feels after chair exercise, and she said, ‘Refreshed, ready for the rest of the day; it’s better than coffee,’” Schenk shares.
Another option for seniors is yoga, which focuses on relaxation and flexibility. The class is held on Thursdays at 10 am in a dimly lit, tranquil setting. Participants can bring their own mats and benefit from gentle stretching, meditation, and stress relief. The cost is just $4 for members and $5 for non-members.
Tai Chi is also available, combining the active movement of your entire body with a meditative focus. Held on Tuesdays at 10 am, the class is led by an experienced instructor who occasionally offers beginner sessions. “Some participants have been coming for years, while others are just starting out,” Schenk explains. “But it’s easy to join in, and everyone benefits physically and mentally.”
In addition to these classes, the center offers Divine Resources, a program that introduces holistic wellness approaches through discussions and the sampling of healthy drinks like teas and smoothies. This program is offered twice a year and provides valuable information on maintaining good health.
Schenk emphasizes that the benefits of staying active extend beyond fitness, as it also encourages healthier eating habits and provides a sense of purpose. Importantly, it helps combat loneliness, a serious concern for many seniors. “We’ve seen firsthand how damaging loneliness can be,” she says. “When seniors come here, they’re not just exercising; they’re interacting with others, feeling like they belong somewhere. That’s huge for mental health.”
Beyond fitness, the Neshaminy Activity Center offers numerous social events to keep seniors engaged and connected. Many enjoy games such as bingo, bunco (a dice game), pinochle, pool, ping pong, and shuffleboard, while others come simply to spend time with friends. Every month, the center hosts luncheons, such as the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day celebration on March 13, featuring food, games, and prizes. A small fee of $5 covers lunch. “These events give seniors a reason to get up, get dressed, and enjoy themselves,” says Schenk. “They’re excited to come and be part of something.”
The center organizes trips throughout the year, such as a bus trip to see the Jersey Tenors at Hunterdon Hills in New Jersey on June 13. Other excursions include a trip to Niagara Falls from June 17 – 20 and a visit to Ocean City, Maryland, in September. These trips offer seniors the excitement of travel without the burden of planning and driving. “The socialization they get from these trips is huge,” Schenk notes. “Just the idea of going somewhere new makes a big difference in their lives.”
Schenk emphasizes that coming to the Neshaminy Activity Center is about more than just fitness; it’s about emotional well-being. The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has been actively promoting programs that encourage seniors to leave their homes and stay engaged in their communities. One way seniors find fulfillment is through the center’s volunteer program. With the exception of Schenk, everyone working at the center is a volunteer. “Statistically, people who volunteer live longer,” Schenk says. “Giving back makes them feel good about themselves. It gives them purpose and a reason to stay engaged.”
The center also ensures that seniors have access to nutritious meals. A dietitian from the state prepares menus based on the dietary needs of a 72-year-old female diabetic, ensuring balanced, health-conscious meals. While there is no required fee for lunch, a voluntary and anonymous $2 donation is appreciated. “They’re not just coming here for hot dogs; we make sure they get a well-balanced meal,” Schenk explains.
For seniors looking to stay active, engaged, and healthy, the Neshaminy Activity Center offers an invaluable resource. Whether through fitness classes, social gatherings, or volunteer opportunities, the center provides a place where seniors can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The center’s newsletter, available on their website, details upcoming events. For more information, visit www.neshaminyac.org or call 215-355-6967. The Neshaminy Activity Center, located at 1842 Brownsville Rd. in Trevose, is supported in part by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the Bucks County Area Agency on Aging.