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UArizona creates a program to keep the aging population moving

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Posted at 5:42 PM, Jan 09, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-12 20:34:23-05

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The University of Arizona is keeping the aging population moving during the pandemic.

Starting Tuesday, the university's Health Sciences department along with the College of Fine Arts to kick off aging with the arts on your computer screen. The goal of the virtual program is to encourage better health and wellness amongst those 55 and older.

"We're definitely looking at making wellness ageless, we are targeting different audiences that we want to make sure that we engage our elderly population, make it more that health and wellness is all connected,” said Julia White, assistant director of engagement and events at the Office of the Senior Vice President for UArizona Health Sciences.

White explained the program is made up of series. The first will focus on small movements that keep those stuck at home moving---while encouraging mindfulness.

"The Feldenkrais method, it's just, it's a method similar to yoga or Tai Chi, where it uses gentle and mindful movement to bring new awareness and possibility and every day so it's very slow, methodical movement," she explained.

There will be eight sessions total in the series co-hosted by the college of fine arts.

She said what sparked the idea was the pandemic. The aging population is homebound because they are most at risk to contract the virus and White explained this is a way the population can connect.

"We wanted to be able to provide this platform so that our aging population could still feel like they're connected to the world. We live in a very, very strange time and we want to make sure that people are feeling connected,” said White.

The program is open to all ages as well. If you need assistance signing up for the series you can contact Julia White at jcwhite@arizona.edu.