An excellent service that is often overlooked is the variety of free fitness classes and other resources found at the three senior centers across Davis County: The South Davis Senior Center in Bountiful (next to the library on 100 East), The North Davis Senior Center in Clearfield (42 South State), and a third location in Kaysville (81 East Center St.). The centers offer fitness classes, recreational opportunities, free meals at home or in a group setting, and in-home health services for seniors. Fitness classes are designed for seniors 60 years old and up. Only evidence-based fitness classes with certified teachers are offered that are designed to reduce arthritis, prevent falls, and increase mobility and fitness. 

Bingocize

This exercise class developed at Western Kentucky University combines simple exercises and health information with playing bingo. Prizes for playing bingo are also health related like a pedometer or reusable water bottle. Exercises can be done sitting or standing. Offered in Kaysville, Monday and Thursday at 12:15 p.m., Clearfield Tuesday at 12:10 p.m., Wednesday at 10 a.m. The South Davis Senior Center (801-451-3660) also offer a variety of classes. 

Enhanced fitness

This class, developed in Washington, involves aerobics and strength training for maximum benefit. The 20 minute aerobics can be adjusted for all levels and the weights can be placed on ankles or just held in the hands. “Classes help seniors bring out their best and build on what they have,” said Debbie Draper with Senior Services. Draper noted that one senior who had difficulty standing without assistance was able to meet this goal after just a couple weeks of classes. Local doctors recommend these research-proven classes. Offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Senior Centers. 

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP)

AFEP is a low-impact chair aerobic class that helps improve balance and reduce fall risk. It is typically offered for 8-10 weeks and then participants can graduate and hopefully do the mobility-saving exercises on their own. 

Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention

Slow-motion martial arts type moves is offered in 16 week classes that provides low-impact exercise. Currently offered in Kaysville on Monday and Wednesday at 9 a.m., Bountiful on Wednesday and Thursday at 11 a.m., and Clearfield on Tuesday and Thursday at 10:15 a.m.

Meals on Wheels or a community lunch 

Senior Services currently offers 380 Davis County residents a meal along with a well check daily. All the Senior Centers also offer a community lunch served from 11:30-11:45 a.m. where a healthy meal comes with good conversation. Forty seniors currently take advantage of this program.

In-home services

Caring for seniors who are not particularly mobile can be challenging for caregivers. The senior centers offer free or income-based services to give respite for caregivers and can include housekeeping, meals and health services. “This is a good program that is often not utilized and fills an important gap in Medicare covered care,” Draper said.

Other recreational opportunities are also available at the Senior Centers like playing cards, bingo, ceramics, arts and pool. The Kaysville center even has an American Mahjong game that meets each Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Many volunteer positions are available such as assisting fitness classes, delivering meals or supervising activities.

For more information on classes available go to the specific center’s website.