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Community Corner

Swampscott Senior and Others Stay Connected

The local YMCA offers seniors and families a way to stay connected in all stages of life.

Even at 96-years-old, Lil Sugarman of Swampscott makes her way to thefour times each week, “when the weather cooperates.”

Despite a surgery that left her with limited mobility, Lil does what she can from the comfort of a folding chair on the side of the group exercise room.

She is a longtime member and loves the variety of fitness classes that the Y offers. The companionship and connection to her neighbors keep her coming back week after week.

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This past week, her fitness family celebrated her 96th birthday here at the Y.

“It gives me a lift each day. Coming to the Y is a big part of my life,” she says.

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Many other women in her class report the same feeling. Paula Peterson of Marblehead adds, “There is a good group of seniors that come almost every day. You see the same people here all the time and it’s a very friendly atmosphere.”

When the YMCA moved to its new home on Leggs Hill Road in 2008, many wondered what would happen to the “downtown” feeling of the Y. But “Main Street” just moved up the hill, as many are finding the new building to be the hub of activity for Marblehead, Swampscott and South Salem members.

Neighbors catch up while their children enjoy a program and friends meet in the fitness center to encourage each other’s fitness goals. With the addition of the cafe’, members can spend the whole day at the Y, moving from class to class with a snack in between.

As time goes on and families grow, the Y’s commitment to the health and well-being of every person, at every age, continues. For aging adults, the Y brings stability at a critical time in their lives.

When spouses and friends pass on, the support system of the Y helps them continue living full lives.

Judy Chamay, who lives around the corner from the Y, walks over to enjoy her weekly class. “The instructors are great; always encouraging us and adapting the workouts to the ailments of older adults.”

Retirees not only want to continue being physically active, they also want to keep socially engaged in their communities. The Lynch/van Otterloo Y sees many older adults asking to volunteer to read to children, coach sports leagues for youngsters and share their professional skills with staff.

Marblehead resident, Dan Smith, has been changing lives through his work as a volunteer. Smith regularly donates his time for the Hospice of the North Shore, as well as coaching 1st and 2nd grade basketball at the Y. “Working with young, active children provides a balance in my volunteer work with the sick who have so little time left,” says Smith. “Being a coach at the Y allowed me to see a little bit more of the other side of life.”

For every stage of one’s life, the Y helps people connect, stay healthy and give back, ultimately fostering that “Main Street” feeling.

To learn more about your YMCA, visit www.northshoreymca.org.

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