Local seniors enjoyed a “Beat-the-Heat” party at the Airport Area YMCA in Bedford on July 19. The event included water aerobics, Zumba, and chair yoga, along with a hot dog cookout and presentations by the Bedford Police Department and Texas Health Resources. 

The event was co-hosted by Care N’ Care as part of Care N’ Community, a new program launched by Care N' Care last month. The program's aim is to work hand in hand with local community partners to create an intergenerational support system for seniors.

“We’ve designed Care N’ Community with the core belief that we are not meant to grow old alone and that our elders are a shared responsibility of a community,” said Kelli Blackwelder, Care N’ Care’s community engagement manager. “It’s wonderful to already see the tremendous response from participants, and we are so thankful to both YMCAs for lending their support and encouragement in this effort.

Through a partnership with two Tarrant County YMCAs, Care N’ Community will co-host weekly programs designed to increase independence, reduce isolation and encourage healthy living of local-area seniors.

The weekly programs – open to all seniors in the area – are being held at the Airport Area YMCA in Bedford and at the Northwest YMCA in Fort Worth. The activities vary greatly from week to week, depending on the needs and wants of the participants. Some programs stress physical activity, such as water aerobics; some are strictly social, such as adult coloring classes or organized breakfast and lunch groups; and some are educational, such as safety tips from local police or healthcare tips from local doctors and nurses.

For a calendar of YMCA/Care N’ Community activities, email social@carencommunity.com or call the Care N’ Community office at 817-632-3024.