Students pursuing careers as physical therapists, physicians, occupational therapists and nurse practitioners recently hosted an intergenerational event for Springpoint Senior Living residents at the Douglass Campus of Rutgers University.
Susan Kaplowitz, Ed.D., a professor of the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Studies, along with 25 students, welcomed 30 residents from Monroe Village and Meadow Lakes, both Springpoint Senior Living continuing care retirement / life plan communities, for an afternoon of physical, mental and creative exercises.
“Springpoint community members were able to facilitate experiential learning for students at the Rutgers campus,” said Stacey Judge, the community’s wellness program director. “As the population overall is aging — with a big boom expected in the 70-and-older age bracket over the next 15 years — studying healthy aging and lifestyle becomes critical for those entering health and wellness professions.”
The students designed interactive stations with fitness testing, creative arts, balancing activities, memory games and sport games such as Wii bowling, water pong and corn-hole. Tactile exercises, to stretch and strengthen hand muscles, used everyday household items such as towels, chairs, sand-filled water bottles and rubber bands.
“This is an excellent intergenerational program where together we take an active part in helping educate the next generation of health and wellness professionals to enhance the quality of life among older adults,” Kaplowitz said. “Students and residents enjoy interacting with each other; it’s a win-win situation for all involved.”
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Springpoint Senior Living residents and Rutgers University students play Wii bowling and water pong together during an April 13 campus event.
