PAWTUCKET, R.I. (May 7, 2019) —Most Americans over the age of 50 are expected to develop a chronic disease, and the YMCA of Pawtucket is taking affirmative steps to help address this public health concern with its “Engage at Every Age” campaign. In observance of Older Americans Month, the MacColl YMCA, Pawtucket YMCA, and Woonsocket YMCA will host events and activities throughout May and will waive joiner’s fees for new members to encourage more people to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Adults 50 years and older currently make up more than 30 percent of the United States’ population, and will soon represent 45 percent of all Americans. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that 70 percent of those individuals will likely develop a chronic disease such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, if they don’t make lifestyle changes soon.

Members of the Lincoln, Pawtucket, and Woonsocket community will now have the guidance and financial support they need from the Y to make small lifestyle choices that can help them lead healthier lives — reaffirming the Y’s commitment to social responsibility and building healthier communities.

“It is never too late to participate in activities that can enrich your physical, mental and emotional well-being,” said Charles R. Clifford, Chief Executive Officer at the YMCA of Pawtucket. “If you need help, support or just a place to get started, community-based organizations like the Y provide the needed guidance to help older adults age well.”

The Pawtucket and Woonsocket branches will each host an open house on Thursday, May 30th, between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The MacColl Y in Lincoln will host a Health Fair and Open House on Wednesday, May 29th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open House events will feature sample exercise classes, facility tours, refreshments, blood pressure testing, pool time, and free fitness assessments.

Throughout May, individuals will also be able to participate in multiple healthy activities at the three locations. Those activities include Aqua Aerobics, Zumba Gold, Basketball, Pickle Ball, Functional Strength Classes, Chair Yoga, Activity clubs and field trips. The YMCA is also inviting members of the community to come in any day during the month of May to learn about membership options including Blue Chip, Silver Sneakers, Membership for All and more.

Individuals interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the participating branch directly. Branch class schedules, phone numbers and locations are available at ymcapawtucket.org/contact-us/.

About YMCA of Pawtucket

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 22 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. The YMCA of Pawtucket is comprised of five branches across the state: Pawtucket Family YMCA and Heritage Park YMCA Early Learning Center in Pawtucket, MacColl YMCA in Lincoln, Westwood YMCA in Coventry and Woonsocket YMCA.

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