12 weeks for a lasting impact
At 71 years old, Ken Bradford knew he didn’t want retirement to mean spending his days sitting on the couch.
Living with arthritis in his knees, ankles, and shoulders, along with other health challenges, Ken was finding everyday activities increasingly difficult. His doctor recommended the YMCA’s Healthy Mobility Program as a way to help him stay active and maintain his independence.
“I want to be able to walk up and down stairs,” Ken says. “When you get older and retire, you tend to sit and watch TV. I didn’t want to do that. I wanted to stay mobile.”
Before joining the YMCA, Ken had completed the GLAD Program through the hospital’s physiotherapy department to help manage the arthritis in his knees and hips. The program helped, but once it ended, he wasn’t sure what to do next.
“When you’re used to exercising three times a week and then suddenly it’s over, you need something to keep you going,” he explains. “My wife suggested we join the Y, and once we got here, I learned about the Healthy Mobility Program.”
After waiting several months for a spot to open, Ken was finally able to join the 12-week program. Today, he continues in the maintenance program and has no plans to stop.
One of the things Ken appreciates most is the supportive environment.
“It’s a group effort,” he says. “When you’re exercising with other people, it keeps you motivated. You see someone else doing something and you think, ‘I can do that too.’”
He also credits YMCA staff Chris Roberts and Parastoo for helping participants stay on track and encouraging them every step of the way.
“They’re really good people. They keep you motivated and make you want to keep coming back.”
The results have been life-changing.
“After the 12-week program, I found it was no trouble going up and down stairs anymore,” Ken says. “It has improved my lifestyle. I feel better.”
For Ken, the Healthy Mobility Program is about more than exercise—it’s about maintaining the ability to do the things that matter most and continuing to live life independently.
“It’s an awesome program,” he says. “The people are good, the place is welcoming, and it’s made a real difference for me. I would recommend it 100%.”
About the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a charity dedicated to building healthy, connected communities where everyone belongs. Through health and wellness, newcomer support, child and youth development, and community programs, we remove barriers, stand against racism and exclusion, and ensure people of all backgrounds have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
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