Celebrating Healthy Aging Month at the YMCA of Orange County

Every September is dedicated as Healthy Aging Month, a month to embrace and celebrate the journey of growing older with energy, grace, and intention. It’s also a meaningful time to reflect on what it truly means to age well, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

According to the 2024–2025 Orange County Business Council Community Indicators Report, the county’s population of adults aged 65 and older is projected to grow significantly, increasing from 17% of the population today to 31% by 2060. That’s an increase of more than 350,000 older adults over the next few decades. This shift will impact many aspects of life in Orange County, including healthcare, housing, and workforce development. However, it also presents an important opportunity to ensure that aging residents in the community have access to resources that help them stay active, connected, and thriving.

At the YMCA of Orange County, we know that regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools for maintaining independence and quality of life as we age. The CDC recommends that older adults practice at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Following this guideline can make a huge difference in how older adults feel and function daily.

Our Active Older Adults programs are designed with these goals in mind. We offer a wide range of fitness classes tailored to support balance, flexibility, and joint health such as:

• Water Fitness classes that enhance flexibility, cardiovascular health, and muscle tone with reduced strain on joints.
• Chair Yoga and SilverSneakers® programs that blend seated and standing poses with breathwork and moderate aerobic training to enhance balance and endurance.
• Strength & Stability sessions that emphasize posture, balance, and muscle endurance.

Each class is led by supportive instructors who understand the unique needs of older adults and are committed to helping members feel their best. Check out our recent feature on Spectrum News that highlights one of our amazing instructors, Pepa!

Healthy Aging Month is a beautiful reminder that growing older can be a time of vitality, discovery, and joy. It’s a chance to honor how far we’ve come and to invest in the future with intention and gratitude. The YMCA is here to support every older adult in Orange County, providing tools, encouragement, and community so everyone can continue to live their healthiest life.