A Time Machine of Sorts
George says the atmosphere at the Y boosts older adults' mental health.
“Our generation and older people enjoy being active as much as possible. That’s just the way we grew up. We were always outside playing and doing things. We didn’t have computer games and other stuff, and there was no television for children when I grew up, so everybody was outdoors.”
He calls it a time machine of sorts.
“The Y is sort of going back to childhood for me because you’re hanging out, and doing all kinds of stuff with people, and physically getting good exercise. It just sort of takes you back in time.”
Since retirement, he spends more hours here.
“All the members are just great people too, and the staff is fabulous. It’s a great place—highlight of my day.”
Along with staying healthy through cardio and weights, the fellow exercisers make his visits valuable.
“It’s just good to be with all ages of people. I enjoy it. It keeps me young.”
We asked George how his life would be different without the Y.
“Boy, haha, not as much fun, that’s for sure. This is just fun to be here, and it’s good for your health.”