Michael and Ed from the Boston Elder Commission with some IPC t-shirt winners

Michael McColgan and Edward Pomfred joined us this week at Café Eireann at the IPC. Both have a keen interest in physical activity, fitness and wellbeing for older adults in the Boston area.

Michael and Edward shared some great facts and tips with us. Michael stated that over 30% of seniors are inactive and emphasized the ‘use it or lose it’ mentality. The good news is WE ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO START. If we engage in physical activity, we maintain our physical ability and in the long term that directly reflects on our independence. The catch 22 with exercise; is that when we need to do it most is when we feel at our laziest.

Physical activity has loads of benefits, for example:

· Makes us feel good.
· Slows down the aging process.
· Gives us more energy.
· Strengthens bones, muscles and our hearts.
· Increases our self image.
· Reduces the risk of diabetes.

All of the above are great reasons to get moving. We should all aim for about 10,000 steps a day and this is easy to achieve. Remember:

· Start slow and check with your doctor before engaging in something new.
· Drink water before and after exercising, even if you don’t feel thirsty!
· Remember to ‘warm up’ and ‘cool down’ before and after exercising.

Senior Picnic – NO MORE SPACES!

Places for the Senior Picnic in Castle Island on June 12th are now full - however you can place your name on the waiting list by calling 855-479-2472. We will call you back should a space become available.
Did you know?

Caregivers, Home Health Aides and Companions can be accessed by contacting the Irish Pastoral Centre – this is a service that the IPC has been offering for the past 25 years. If you need someone or know of anyone who is looking for that ‘Irish Connection’ please reach out to Kathleen. The IPC also carries housing listings, if you have an apartment that needs renting; consider the IPC as a ‘bulletin board’ to advertise. We’re here for you!!

Please feel free to call Eileen at 617 265 5300 x 13 for more information on IPC Senior Citizen Outreach Program activities and services.