Part 3 of a 3-part series
Submitted by Joan Gerberding
Thanks to the generosity of Bob and Kelly Willenborg, of both Effingham, Illinois and Marco Island, the YMCA of Collier County South Campus is the only organization in Southwest Florida that has a one-of-a-kind SMARTfit Gamification program. It provides brain health training to specifically engage various parts of the human brain, especially for seniors or adults who may have declining cognitive, physical movement, or balance issues.
In Part 3 of this series, we’ll examine how exercise, cognitive brain stimulation, and socialization can significantly improve the mental health for people of all ages, but in particular, for seniors or those with cognitive difficulties.
The “Y’s” SMARTfit program is designed to enhance and maintain everyday mental and physical activities at all levels by teaching people to reach quicker decisions while moving their bodies, allowing them to improve their focus, balance, coordination, and speed. At the same time, the program is designed to strengthen cognitive abilities and motor skills.
The program is currently available at the “Y” to people of all ages, including kids, teens, and adults, but especially for seniors who may be in decline for any number of reasons, including the onset of dementia, Alzheimer's, or Parkinson’s. You do not need to be a member of the “Y” to participate in SMARTfit.
The “Y’s” program is designed to provide brain engagement and rehabilitation for individuals with acute brain and neuro issues or debilitating chronic diseases. In addition, it provides specific physical activities and assessments that can increase range of movement and balance. Many people who may be worried about their memory also use SMARTfit to focus their brain.
“The brain will not remember anything it doesn’t pay attention to or focus on,” commented Jane Hansen, licensed SMARTfit Head Coach. “That’s what’s really great about SMARTfit. It improves focus and physical stamina.”
Dual-task games, for example, are designed to be scalable so that people from youngsters to seniors and at all physical ability levels have the option to start slowly and increase their level of movement as much as they are able. The program offers both proven challenges and safety measures to match the level of each user’s abilities.
All fitness levels can be accommodated. The advanced athlete may be doing “burpees” or “squat thrusts”, while playing a cognitive game that impacts their brain power. Someone in a wheelchair may be marching in place, while striking the game board with a pool noodle.
“We are trained to accommodate all cognitive and fitness levels which is what makes this machine so amazing,” continued Hansen.
In addition to boosting mental acuity and physical movement, the SMARTfit program allows people who may not be able to easily get out and about, the chance to socialize and interact with other people in the same situation.
Socialization is a vital component of a healthy and fulfilling life, especially as we age. It offers a myriad of benefits that contribute to both physical and mental well-being, such as lowering stress levels which positively impacts overall health.
Also, when strong social connections are made, it’s been proven to boost our immune systems and provide a valuable support system and a sense of belonging. It enriches lives, strengthens relationships, and contributes to overall well-being. People can also sign up for individual sessions or small group sessions.
"We are finding out, however, that our current SMARTfit users really enjoy participating in the program with a partner,” continued Hansen, “they’re really supportive of each other.”
The “Y” will be having two free Open Houses to try out the SMARTfit program on Saturday, August 17th and Monday, August 18th. The Open Houses are from 12 to 1:30PM, with free 15-minute demonstration sessions from 1:30 to 3:00PM.
SMARTfit is only available at the YMCA of Collier County South Campus located at 101 Sand Hill Street, off San Marco Road. For more information on the SMARTfit program or to reserve a space at the demo session, call the “Y” at 239-394-9622.
