With a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 10, 2025, the Thrive Center for Healthy Aging at Sewickley Valley YMCA is officially open! The Thrive Center is a dedicated space for expert-led healthy aging classes and structured chronic disease wellness programs like Fall Prevention, Delay the Disease, Chair Yoga, Senior Conditioning, and more, all made possible by generous donations from the community. Designed to support older adults in staying active, independent, and connected, the Thrive Center empowers Sewickley Valley YMCA members to build strength, improve mobility, and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
At the grand opening, we asked Trish Hooper, CEO, questions to learn more about the newly opened Thrive Center for Healthy Aging and its benefits to the community.
Q: What inspired the YMCA to create the Thrive Center for Healthy Aging?
Trish Hooper: The YMCA has always served our community at every stage of life, and there is a growing need for specialized wellness programs tailored to older adults. Many of our members are looking for ways to stay active, manage chronic conditions, and maintain independence. Thanks to generous donations and community contributions, we created the Thrive Center as a dedicated space where older adults can access programs and classes designed to support mobility, strength, and overall well-being in an environment that fosters community and connection.
Q: How does the Thrive Center differ from other wellness spaces at the YMCA?
Trish Hooper: The Thrive Center is specifically designed for the unique needs of older adults and those managing chronic conditions. The space is equipped with supportive equipment, adaptive fitness tools, and a schedule of classes and programs that focus on balance, flexibility, and strength. It’s more than just a workout space—it’s a hub for lifelong wellness, where members can participate in evidence-based programs like the Fall Prevention Program and Delay the Disease for individuals that have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s, as well as group exercise classes like Chair Yoga, Healthy Neck & Back, and Senior Conditioning.
Q: How have YMCA members responded to the opening of the Thrive Center?
Trish Hooper: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Members share stories about how YMCA programs have helped them regain confidence in their movements and improve their strength. We’ve also seen participants who were initially hesitant about exercise become regular attendees, not just for the physical benefits but also for the supportive community they’ve found at the Y. The Thrive Center enables us to reach more people and provide the support they need to lead healthier, more active lifestyles.
Q: How can members use the Thrive Center?
Trish Hooper: Members can attend daily exercise classes, such as Chair Yoga or Senior Conditioning, or register for structured chronic disease wellness programs like Fall Prevention or Delay the Disease. Our team is always available to answer questions and help members find the right program for their needs. We encourage anyone interested in improving their mobility, strength, and overall wellness to stop by and experience what the Thrive Center has to offer.
Q: What other resources are available for senior adults at the YMCA?
Trish Hooper: Our goal is to ensure that every older adult in our community has access to offerings and resources that help them stay active, independent, and engaged for years to come. We offer a wide range of healthy aging activities at the Sewickley Valley YMCA. These include warm water exercise, fun and fellowship programs, and all of the class and program offerings now scheduled in the newly opened Thrive Center. Our online directory, Senior Central, with resource listings ranging from emotional support, housing options, transportation solutions, meal assistance, specialized care, and more, is another way we help our senior community and caregivers.
Q: Why is it important to offer specialized programs and resources for older adults?
Trish Hooper: As we age, maintaining physical activity becomes increasingly important, but it also presents new challenges. Many older adults experience issues with balance, mobility, or chronic conditions that make traditional exercise routines less accessible. Our specialized programs provide targeted support to help participants stay active safely and effectively. Beyond physical benefits, these programs also foster social connections, helping participants build friendships and a sense of belonging, which is vital for overall well-being.
Join Us at the Thrive Center!
The Thrive Center is home to a variety of expert-led classes and structured programs, offering older adults the opportunity to stay active, independent, and engaged. Check out the image carousel to see highlights from our ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 10, 2025.
Whether you’re looking for a structured program or a supportive space to stay active, the Thrive Center for Healthy Aging has something for you.
View the Thrive Center room schedule at a glance, visit the YMCA to learn more, participate in a class, or register for a program today!
