Growing Stronger

When facilitating the Growing Stronger program, I repeatedly hear from participants the many benefits that they receive. Simple things like, “It is easy for me to get up and down during church services, I no longer have to hang on to the pew ahead of me” or “It is easier to put on my socks and shoes.” “I am able to get up from the floor for the first time in years.” “I feel stronger and my balance is better.” “My legs do not cramp in the middle of the night anymore and if they do, I know which exercise will immediately give me relief.” Remarks like these and many other reported changes in peoples’ lives make Growing Stronger one of my favorite programs to facilitate. Additionally, the program is fun and enjoyable as well as life improving. Many of our new participants are recruited by friends who continue to be engaged in Growing Stronger.

Growing Stronger helps those of us age 50 + years to improve our overall well-being. Strong muscles, strong bones and good balance enable us to enjoy the things in life that we find important. They help us to maintain our independence. Regular physical activity like Growing Stronger improves our outlook on the world and helps us to live happier lives. The program builds connections with others in the community with similar interests.

Research indicates that strength-training programs like Growing Stronger are a safe and effective way to maintain our ability to do the things we want and remain independent. Remember, the benefits of muscle-strengthening activity extend beyond our muscles. These activities assist in maintaining our balance, reduce the symptoms of arthritis, lower our risk of many chronic diseases associated with aging and strengthen our bones. As we age, good balance protects us from falls and bone strength decreases our risk of serious injury.

This is true regardless of gender. Other benefits include improved sleep quality and a healthy state of mind as indicated by less reported depression, improved self-confidence and self-esteem. The Growing Stronger Program benefits women and men whether they are currently active or not, since each person starts at their own level.

CCE Franklin regularly offers the Growing Stronger program at the St Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Office for the Aging in Akwesasne as well as in Malone. The program Malone is co-facilitated with Josy Delaney, Community Wellness Specialist Alice Hyde Medical Center. Contact Vanetta Conn by email, vmc23@cornell.edu or telephone, 483-7403 to learn more about how the Growing Stronger Program can benefit you or a loved one. 

Last updated June 1, 2015