Fun with pool noodles
On June 27, Baptist Homes Society teamed up with Prime Time Adult Care for an afternoon of exercise and fun at Christ United Methodist Church. Baptist Homes Society Fitness Coordinator Toni Pietrone led a class utilizing pool noodles for a group of 18 senior citizens. Each participant in the 30-minute class was given a colorful pool noodle, using it to exercise to dance remixes of songs such as “You Ain’t Nothin’ But A Hound Dog,” by Elvis Presley. Pietrone commented, “Working with adults that have dementia or Alzheimer’s is very enjoyable. Every time is a new and fun experience. Just seeing how they put their own twist to the exercise is simply amazing! They respond well to the exercises and I love making them smile!” Baptist Homes Society’s Community Liaison Sue Lauer coordinates these wellness outreach efforts around the Pittsburgh area. Programs include seated exercise, healthy diet, brain health, and social engagement; all are interactive. Pietrone’s ability to interact with the participants makes the class upbeat creating an afternoon of fun, laughter and some light exercise. Even the staff took pool noodles and participated, helping the seniors when needed.