With our lifestyles becoming more sedentary, it's hard to stay fit and healthy in today's world.  The majority of jobs are performed sitting behind a desk, while our free time is spent in front of a television.  Finding time to dedicate to physical exercise also becomes more difficult as people work longer hours and lead busier lives.  For those with disabilities, the task of staying fit is even more difficult.  In the case of seniors, chronic problems such as arthritis, can make some physical activities too painful to participate.  It can become easy for them to just "give up" on the things they used to love to do.  To help promote and create awareness for the different recreational options out there for the disabled, The National Therapeutic Recreation Society has established that the 2nd week in July be National Therapeutic Recreation Week.

The week has been celebrated across the country since 1984, with seminars, sporting events, health fairs and workshops.  With summer in full swing it is the perfect time to begin a fitness program or discover new activities to add to your regime.  Most info can be obtained form local newspapers, websites and recreation centers in your area.  Healthnet.com provides 5 easy steps to getting started:

1. ASSESS YOURSELF AND CREATE YOUR OVERALL HEALTH PLAN.  Evaluate any risk factors and physical limitations and plan accordingly.
2. PICK ONE HEALTHY-LIFESTYLE AREA TO START WITH.  You are more likely to be successful by focusing on one  goal at a time.
3. LINE UP YOUR RESOURCES AND SUPPORTERS.  Consult with doctors and therapists to find groups suited for your  lifestyle changes. Talk with friends and co-workers who may already be a part of a recreation group.
4. START WITH A FEW SMALL CHANGES AND MAKE THEM ROUTINE.  For example, make small changes in your diet, such as adding one more fruit or vegetable to your meals.
5. REWARD YOURSELF AND KEEP AT IT.  After completing each lifestyle change, celebrate and reward yourself.  This will help motivate you to continue on to the next challenge.

The physical and mental benefits of leading a healthy lifetsyle are immeasurable.  A strong body helps to promote a strong mind as does the social interaction that is provided by group activities.  There are many versions of games and activities that can be played indoors or out.  Sycamore Village utilizes many of these for group functions.  A plastic bowling set makes it easier for most residents to be able to participate, even those in wheel chairs.  Automatic putting greens are also manageable by most.  One of the most popular and varied activities are the games available on the Wii system.  Most of the games require nothing more than simple arm movements and allow for multiple players.  The social aspect alone is great for mental stimulation.  It can be difficult sometimes to bridge the generation gaps between younger family members and the older ones, but games like these are a great way for family members of all ages to come togehter.