On Thursday, Dr. Wen and BCHD staff joined Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, City Council President Jack Young, Aaron Merki from the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, and Kathy Brill from the Leonard & Helen R. Stulman Charitable Foundation to celebrate the grand opening of the Waxter Senior Center Fitness Center.

This 3,000 square foot fitness center will provide Waxter center members and the surrounding community with new fitness equipment and a space for therapeutic services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other health related activities.

The Waxter Senior Center is the oldest senior center in Baltimore. The 14 senior centers across the city are the main foundation of our neighborhoods and communities to help connect older adults and families to social, recreational, and education activities. At these senior centers, BCHD staff refer residents to health services and benefits as well as other assistance programs. Additionally, there are at least 30 weekly activities available to members and the public. Last year, the senior centers served over 2,500 residents across the city.

Dr. Wen emphasized the importance of physical activity in health and well-being. Being physically active improves overall health and helps to reduce risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. For seniors, it means helping make them stronger which reduces the risk of falling and breaking bones as well as improves arthritis and reduces pain. The new fitness center will promote physical activity as a major part of lifelong wellness and fitness.