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Older New Yorkers Gather in Foley Square for National Older Adult Health and Fitness Day Event
Nearly 1,000 Older Adults Gathered in Foley Square for Laughter Yoga and Stretch Exercises, Promoting Health, Fitness, and Year-Round Activities at Older Adult Centers Across the City
New York, NY – Movement is medicine, and for older New Yorkers, staying active took center stage at NYC Department for the Aging’s (NYC Aging) National Older Adult Health and Fitness Day celebration at Foley Square. The event brought older adults together for a joyful day of movement, laughter, and community.
Nearly 1,000 older adults celebrated the importance of physical activity in supporting healthy aging. The event was part of NYC Aging’s ongoing 50th anniversary celebration. As the agency continues its mission to implement programs and educate the public about the services available to help New Yorkers age in place, today’s activities reminded participants that staying active is not only essential but also easier — and more fun — than many realize.
“It is vital that our older adults have every opportunity to stay healthy and active, but also, to have fun,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Every year, we look forward to bringing out more of our older adults for 'National Older Adult Health and Fitness Day' as we move, dance, and laugh. We are laser-focused on delivering resources and supports to older New Yorkers as we work to ensure that they are able to live and thrive in New York City.”
“This event is a celebration of movement, connection, and possibility,” said NYC Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez. “Exercise is essential to aging well. Whether it’s stretching, walking, or laughing with neighbors, every step supports independence and well-being. As we mark 50 years of service to older New Yorkers, we remain committed to providing opportunities for healthy aging in every neighborhood through our centers, programs, and partnerships.”
After receiving red noses and pom poms, participants began with bend and stretch exercises designed to improve flexibility and mobility. These movements help expand range of motion for daily tasks, such as reaching overhead or turning to look both ways before crossing the street.
The event also featured a Laughter Yoga session, which combines breathing and movement techniques. This approach has been shown to reduce stress and social isolation, and boost overall mental and physical well-being.
“A healthy lifestyle should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone at any age,” said Daniel Baker, MD, President of Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital. “We're honored to have joined New York City’s Department for the Aging in empowering older adults through movement and community connection.”
National Older Adult Health and Fitness Day is one of several events NYC Aging is hosting this year in celebration of five decades of service and advocacy on behalf of older New Yorkers. As part of the agency’s mission to educate the public about aging issues and provide services to help New Yorkers age in place, today’s celebration showed that staying active is not only important, but also fun.
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About NYC Aging:
The NYC Department for the Aging’s (NYC Aging) mission is to eliminate ageism and empower older adults to live independently in their communities. NYC Aging provides vital programs and resources to support nearly 1.8 million older New Yorkers, fostering their physical and mental well-being.