WESTWOOD—Westwood’s Forever Young program is offering residents aged 55 and older a variety of classes, seminars, and trips to promote health, wellness, and community engagement. From yoga and Tai Chi to informative seminars and shopping trips, seniors have plenty of options to stay active and connected.
Stay Fit with Yoga and Tai Chi
The Forever Young Program offers free yoga classes for Westwood residents 55 and over, led by certified instructor Tori Karach. The hour-long classes aim to improve flexibility, balance, posture, and muscle tone, while reducing aches and pains. Yoga classes are held on Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. at the Westwood Community Center. Chair Yoga is also available on Thursdays from 12:00 to 12:40 p.m. Non-residents may participate for a monthly fee of $20.
In addition to yoga, instructor Hasmig Mekjian leads Tai Chi classes, an ancient Chinese martial art that promotes relaxation and stress reduction through slow, continuous movements. The Tai Chi sessions are held on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. and Thursdays at 1 p.m. These classes are free for Westwood residents 55 and older, with a $30 monthly fee for non-residents, which includes access to both classes.
Get Involved with Seminars and Trips
The Forever Young Program also offers various seminars and trips to help seniors stay informed and connected with the community. Participants have already enjoyed activities like CPR & First Aid training, Mocktails with the Mayor, and visits to the Bergen County Senior Festival and the Old Tappan Italian Festival.
Upcoming activities include:
- Trips to Paramus Park Mall: With the holidays approaching, seniors can enjoy shopping trips to Paramus Park Mall. The trips are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, and Friday, Dec. 13, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The mall features stores such as Macy’s, Stew Leonard’s, LL Bean, Old Navy, and a food court. Transportation is provided via the Senior Community Van.
- Nutrition & Cooking for One: Starting on Nov. 19, from noon to 2 p.m., seniors can participate in a three-course series led by chef Roseanne Brill of The Crafty Kitchen and nutritionist Marla Klein. Funded by a Bergen County Community Block grant, the first session will focus on breakfast preparation.
- Fall Prevention & The Age-Friendly Home: On Dec. 17, from noon to 2 p.m., Abby Beutel, emergency department nurse manager at Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical Center, will lead a seminar on fall prevention and home safety. Participants will learn how to identify fall risks in their homes and receive tips on preventing injuries. A light luncheon will be served.
Registration Information
Residents aged 55 and up can register for classes and events by visiting the Westwood Community Center at 55 Jefferson Ave., Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact Recreation Supervisor RoseAnn Ciarlante at 201-664-7882 or rciarlante@westwoodnj.gov.