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Seniors Being Fit at GreenFields: Residents Exercise More Than the General Population

The percentage of residents of GreenFields of Geneva who exercise on a regular basis exceeds that of the general population. More than 60% of the residents of the senior living community take advantage of the great fitness opportunities available at GreenFields. "It's not unusual for a resident's fitness level to actually improve once they've moved into GreenFields," said AJ Alfrey, Senior- Fit exercise specialist at GreenFields.

AJ promotes fitness to everyone as soon as they move into the community. "I definitely establish a personal relationship with everyone. They know that I sincerely care about their health and they become dedicated," he said. "I help everyone to develop individualized regimes that are suitable and beneficial. They get excited and are motivated to come in to the fitness center and work out."

All of the residents of independent living are taught how to use the machines in the fitness center, and are encouraged to attend some of the many class offerings.

Residents of assisted living and memory support have dedicated time in the fitness center to work with AJ on the equipment. "A lot of them come at least four times a week; some come as many as seven. I switch up their routines for them to keep it fresh," he said. This includes individuals who are in wheelchairs or use walkers. "I think we are a little bit ahead of the game in terms of promoting fitness for residents in assisted living and memory support, but it's a natural. Research shows that exercise helps to increase the blood flow to the brain and muscles," said AJ. "We do range of motion exercises and some stepping with good music."

AJ also visits GreenFields' Briarwood Healthcare Center where he promotes hand and upper body strengthening exercises. "We work on motor skills so that the residents are able to keep doing normal activities of daily living," he said. "My objective is to maximize the independence and increase activities of daily living. My main goal is to keep residents as independent as possible."

GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a retirement lifestyle you'll love, and the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. Sponsored by Friendship Senior Options, GreenFields is a sister community to Friendship Village, the largest retirement community in Illinois and the first to become accredited. GreenFields is located at 0N801 Friendship Way in Geneva. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org.

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