From a bus ride to the Cleveland Museum of Art to traveling by airplane to Iceland, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland’s Active Older Adults (AOAs) are on the move! In fact, this year alone, our Y has scheduled more than 55 trips across town and around the world for its loyal AOAs.
The trips are designed to allow AOAs to explore new places, meet new people, and make new memories. The YMCA offers a variety of different travel trips, including:
- Day trips: These trips are typically one day long and include transportation, lunch, and admission to a local attraction.
- Overnight trips: These trips are typically two or three days long and include transportation, lodging, meals, and admission to local attractions.
- Extended trips: These trips are typically seven days or longer and include transportation, lodging, meals, and admission to local attractions.
“We love our Active Older Adults,” says Loni Beverly, YMCA of Greater Cleveland Association Active Older Adult Director. “They enjoy life to the fullest, whether it's taking a group exercise class together, playing pickleball, or traveling near and far. They are a wonderful example for all our members of the benefits of staying active, healthy and engaged. If not now, when?”
“I love all of the trips I’ve been on,” said YMCA of Greater Cleveland AOA member Millie Gilly. “They are very well organized, very relaxing, and so much fun! On my first trip I didn’t know anyone but it only took a few minutes to feel a part of the group. This is a great way to see the country and be with people you are comfortable with.”
Examples of this year’s trips include going to Washington D.C., an extended trip to Ireland, taking a “coastal cruise” in the Carolinas, touring local houses of worship of all faiths and going to Mackinac Island.
There are many benefits of senior citizens traveling. Here are a few:
- Improved mental health. Traveling can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help to improve cognitive function and memory.
- Increased physical activity. Traveling often involves walking, hiking, and other physical activities. This can help to improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.
- New experiences and perspectives. Traveling exposes seniors to new cultures, people, and ideas. This can help them to learn, grow and develop a more open-minded outlook on the world.
- Increased social interaction. Traveling can help seniors to meet new people and make new friends. This can help to reduce loneliness and isolation.
- Make new memories. Travel creates new memories that will last a lifetime. These memories can help you stay happy and fulfilled in your later years.