Ann’s Choice Enhances Senior Well-being with Drums Alive Program

At Ann’s Choice, an Erickson Senior Living community in Bucks County, Pa., residents have embraced a novel way to stay active through the Drums Alive program. This innovative fitness initiative merges aerobic exercises with rhythmic drumming, using exercise balls balanced on buckets as drums. The program, designed to be inclusive and adaptable, caters to seniors with varying physical and cognitive abilities, making it a popular choice among the community's residents.

The Drums Alive sessions, which include a warm-up, main workout, and cooldown, have seen a significant increase in participation since their inception. From small beginnings with about five or six residents, classes now regularly attract around 20 participants, with a waiting list often in place. The program's appeal lies not just in its fun and lively nature but also in the tangible health benefits it offers. These include improved cardiovascular health, enhanced mobility and coordination, strengthened muscles and joints, and better balance and stability, which can help reduce the risk of falls.

Beyond physical health, the program delivers cognitive improvements. Drumming stimulates neural connections, enhancing concentration, sensory and motor skills, and potentially delaying cognitive decline. The group setting of the classes also fosters a strong sense of community and teamwork among participants, creating a shared experience that promotes unity and inclusion.

Ann’s Choice currently offers three weekly Drums Alive classes: a standing class, a seated class, and a hybrid option, each capped at 20 participants to ensure personalized attention. The success of the program underscores the community's commitment to providing diverse and engaging activities that support the well-being of its residents. With plans to expand and enhance the program, Ann’s Choice continues to innovate in promoting active and healthy living for seniors.