Building Connections & Wellness: How the West Suburban YMCA Supports Active Older Adults
The West Suburban YMCA is committed to fostering a vibrant community for seniors through its Active Older Adults (AOA) programs, designed to promote health, wellness, and social connections among members aged 55 and above. In line with YMCA of the USA's broader initiative to combat senior loneliness, these local programs in our community aim to create a space where older adults can feel supported and connected. Whether it’s staying active, meeting new friends, or enjoying enriching experiences, the WSYMCA provides a welcoming environment for seniors to thrive.
Active Older Adults Social Club
Central to our senior-focused offerings is the Active Older Adults Club, which provides a welcoming environment for members to connect, share experiences, and build lasting friendships. The club organizes monthly events that cater to diverse interests, ensuring there’s always something fun and engaging on the calendar. Since its launch, the group has hosted a lunch party kick-off event, a festive holiday crafting gathering, a Valentine's party filled with sweet treats and camaraderie, and an exciting evening to a Left Center Right tournament, with proceeds benefiting WSYMCA's marathon runner, Liz Puleo.
Group Exercise Classes Popular with the 55+ Age Group
Staying active is essential for overall well-being, and the YMCA offers a variety of free group exercise classes tailored to older adult members. From low-impact strength and cardio workouts like Keeping Fit to water-based classes such as Aqua Fit and Aqua Sculpt, there are plenty of ways to stay moving. Dance Fit, Pilates, and Healing Yoga promote flexibility, balance, and core strength, while Pickleball provides both social and physical benefits. These classes, held at both our Church Street and Wells Ave locations, help seniors stay fit while forming connections with peers.
YMCA's Commitment to Combating Senior Loneliness
Beyond local initiatives, the YMCA is actively addressing the broader issue of senior loneliness. On March 12, 2025, Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA, testified before the Senate Special Committee on Aging. The hearing, titled "Breaking the Cycle of Senior Loneliness: Strengthening Family and Community Support," focused on various initiatives designed to reduce senior loneliness and explored the impacts of social isolation on older Americans. During her testimony, McCormick highlighted the YMCA's role in creating supportive environments that foster social connections and community engagement among seniors. "We know we are making a positive difference in their lives by connecting them to supportive people and communities," McCormick said. "Research has shown that older adults who engage with the Y experience significant increases in overall well-being and social connectedness, a decrease in loneliness, and improvements in well-being, physical health, and mental health."
For more details, read the full Morningstar.com article: YMCA of the USA President and CEO Suzanne McCormick Testifies About Combatting Senior Loneliness at Senate Special Committee on Aging.
Watch the full hearing, including Suzanne McCormick’s testimony, HERE.
Get Involved
The West Suburban YMCA invites all seniors to become part of our Active Older Adults community. Whether you're looking to stay physically active, engage in social events, or find a supportive network, our programs are designed to meet your needs. Join us in promoting health, happiness, and connection among older adults.
For more information on our programs and membership, please visit our Active Older Adults page.
Together, let's build a community where seniors thrive in mind, body, and spirit.