Older adults find strength and community at Baker Senior Center

NAPLES, Fla. - Three mornings a week, the Bone Building Fitness class at Baker Senior Center Naples fills with older adults lifting weights, stretching and working to stay active as they age.

The class is designed to improve strength, balance and mobility, but participants say the friendships formed inside the room are just as important as the exercise.

Debbie Peluchette joined the class more than two years ago after her doctor diagnosed her with osteoporosis and encouraged her to strengthen her bones. She said the workouts have made a noticeable difference in her everyday life.

“I have grandchildren. I can run around with them,” Peluchette said. “My daughter lives in a two-story house, and I could go up and down the stairs much more easily.”

Bone Building Fitness is one of several programs offered by the nonprofit senior center. Marisa Luizzi, the center’s chief program officer, said adults 60 and older can access exercise classes, art programs, lectures and other activities through a $100 annual membership.

“A lot of our exercise programs focus on either balance, strength training, core muscle and really just trying to help seniors be as steady as they can,” Luizzi said.

Instructor Janet Scher said the class is designed so participants can work within their own abilities.

“You do what you can,” Scher said. “Nobody says you have to take a 10-pound weight and lift it. Nobody says you shouldn’t be in this class because you’re not taking any weights. It’s what you want to do on your own.”

Jackie Brodeur, 96, said staying active has helped her keep her independence.

“How many people my age, at 96, can walk without a cane and can do the things that I can do?” Brodeur said.

Brodeur said the social connection is another major reason people continue returning.

“The biggest thing, I think, that this place has for me are the friendships, the friendships you make and the smiles you get when you come,” she said.