CHEER Academy to boost healthy living for seniors

Georgetown, Del. – CHEER, an organization that promotes healthy living in seniors, is launching “CHEER Academy in January, which offers classes in a variety of subjects and activities like tai chi, creative writing, cardio drums, chess, yoga, painting and even square dancing

The academy is the newest program out of CHEER, which offers a range of services for seniors including assisted living, food access and nutritional programs, support groups, companionship and housekeeping.

“The surgeon general has recently said that, social isolation is as bad for you physically as smoking,” CHEER COO Tom Reardon, creator of the CHEER Academy said. “So the idea of CHEER Academy is that it is a way for seniors to stay active, to stay connected, to continue learning.”

CHEER Academy Program Manager Jacqueline Reilley said the semester program, in addition to being available to all CHEER members, is also available for all community members over the age of 50 and includes a free membership to CHEER for the entire year.

Reardon said he hopes the academy, which will even feature a graduation, inspires attendees to create lasting friendships which can play a significant role in physical well being and mental health.

“I hope these are more than classes. I hope there are times of fellowship,” he said. “I hope there are times where people can grow together and make new friends and have fun.”

Reilley said that she hopes getting out of one’s comfort zone and learning new things will lead to a more enriching lifestyle for seniors.

“Getting involved, having meaningful engagement time, socialization, education, learning something new is something that we forget that we can still after the age of 50,” she said.

Registration is open until January 5 and non-members can register by directly contacting Reilley.