On Wednesday, May 28, 2025, seniors from the Krakus Senior Center at the Polish and Slavic Center had the opportunity to take part in a special event – the 32nd edition of National Older Adult Health & Fitness Day, organized by the NYC Department for the Aging. This nationwide initiative promotes healthy lifestyles among older adults and gathers thousands of participants across the United States each year. For our seniors, it was a day full of movement, joy, and connection – a day that will remain in our memories for a long time.
From the very morning, the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm. Under a beautiful sky, surrounded by greenery and positive energy, the seniors engaged in a variety of physical activities specially tailored to their needs and abilities. Among the many attractions were joyful and engaging activities – laughter yoga was a particular favorite, sparking bursts of laughter and boosting everyone’s mood, alongside more traditional physical and relaxation exercises.
The social aspect of the event was just as important. National Older Adult Health & Fitness Day is a perfect opportunity to meet new people and build intergenerational and intercultural connections. Seniors from the Krakus Club had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with members of the Raices Senior Center and other senior centers from across New York City. Sharing experiences, exchanging smiles, having conversations, and laughing together – all of this created an atmosphere of mutual respect and closeness that went beyond language and cultural barriers.
The event was also excellently organized – the hosts ensured the comfort of all participants, providing water, healthy snacks, and rest areas. There were also valuable educational components – seniors could take advantage of health consultations and participate in brief workshops on nutrition, mental wellness, and physical safety.
“It was a day that offered us not only a dose of healthy movement, but above all, a sense of community and the joy of being together,” said one of the Krakus Club participants. “Events like this are truly needed – they prove that age is not a barrier to staying active, curious about the world, and open to other people.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the NYC Department for the Aging for the invitation and warm hospitality, and to our friends from the Raices Senior Center and other organizations – for the shared joy, laughter, and incredible atmosphere.
At the Krakus Senior Club, we believe that physical activity is not only a path to better health, but also to a happier, more fulfilling life – and this day confirmed just that. We look forward to the next opportunity to move, laugh, and connect together!
