Chronic Disease Prevention

Healthy living is about enriching spirit, mind and body at every age and stage of life. At the Y, we offer classes and programs that promote wellness, reduce risk for disease, and help you maintain or reclaim your health. Whether you’re looking to improve your mobility, or develop healthy habits that will help prevent health issues in the future, you’ll find the support you need right here.

Helping You on your journey to better health

The Chronic Disease Prevention programs at the Y are designed to help you prevent or overcome health challenges you may be facing through education and physical activity. These programs are led by highly trained and experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping you on your journey to better health. If you’re interested in any of these programs, please contact the Y’s bm*******@ke********.org“>Health & Wellness Director, Bridget Moynihan.

Program Information

Tai Ji Quan™: Moving for Better Balance

Ages 50+

This program aims to improve balance, coordination, and stability using gentle, low-impact movements based on the forms of Tai Chi. This progressive, evidence-based, 24-week program has been shown to increase confidence, reduce the risk of falling, and enhance overall fitness for participants. All levels are welcome and we can accommodate individuals who need some assistance walking, such as use of a cane. In addition to the program’s physical benefits, the safe, supportive group setting provides an opportunity for participants to enjoy learning with like-minded adults and find relief from the isolation that can sometimes come from living with limited mobility. This program meets twice per week for 24 weeks.

Diabetes Prevention Program

AGES 18+

This program focuses on small, measurable, and reasonable goals to give participants confidence that they can make the necessary changes to reduce their risk for Type 2 Diabetes and live healthier lives. In a classroom setting, a trained lifestyle coach will facilitate a small group of participants in learning about healthier eating, physical activity and other behavior changes over 25 sessions. The year-long program consists of 16 weekly sessions and 3 sessions every other week during the first 6 months, followed by 6 monthly sessions in the second 6 months. The program emphasizes two primary goals for the first half of the year: reduce body weight by 7%, and increase physical activity by 150 minutes per week. To qualify, participants must be 18 years old, overweight (BMI equal or greater than 25), and diagnosed with prediabetes (via a blood test) or gestational diabetes. People with diabetes are not eligible for this program.

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