Parker Brings Project Healthy Bones to Community
(Photo caption: Lori Morell, Senior Manager of Health and Wellness, left, and Julie Madsen, Personal Trainer, with a poster describing the benefits of Project Healthy Bones.)
When Parker offered the Project Healthy Bones 24-week exercise program for osteoporosis prevention, it was so beneficial to members of Parker’s Center for Healthy Aging that Lori Morell, Senior Manager of the health and wellness center was compelled to share it with the community-at-large at no cost.
To combat osteoporosis, project participants learn the importance of exercise, nutrition, drug therapy and lifestyle choices which can impact bone health. The participants use hand and ankle weights during exercises that target the body’s larger muscle groups. They are also educated about the benefits of vitamin D and calcium to improve bone density and prevent fractures.
In a 2008 research study with Rutgers University and the New Jersey Interagency Council on Osteoporosis, Parker’s Center for Healthy Aging facilitated Project Healthy Bones classes over a two-year period with several groups of active adults. The research outcome showed progression in balance and strength, decreased fear of falling, improved flexibility, healthy eating and increased self-confidence.
In January 2016, the first Project Healthy Bones program outside of Parker was facilitated at the Four Seasons in Cranbury to a group of 30 people. Lori Morell and her staff of personal trainers from Parker’s Health and Wellness Center provided education about nutrition, safe movement, and fall prevention, followed by the exercise class. The participants reported moving easier with better balance and coordination, stamina, increased energy and an overall feeling of wellness.
The successful 24-week program was offered to 35 residents of the Rossmoor Community in Monroe, and will soon be offered to members of the Plainsboro Senior Community Center. For more information about Parker’s Project Healthy Bones programs, call 732-902-4200.