Harry Kalkbrenner, 83, is proof that it’s never too late to prioritize health and fitness. Four years ago, at age 79, he joined the AM360 Fitness Silver Fit Program operated by the AM Diabetes and Endocrinology Center in Bartlett. Harry first became involved with the program after staff members at the center encouraged him to participate. Since then, exercise has become a regular and enjoyable part of his routine. “I look forward to it,” he says. “We have a good time, and it keeps you in better shape than you would be sitting at home.”
A Medicare–sponsored fitness and healthy aging program that promotes cardiovascular health and diabetes management, Silver Fit classes are designed specifically for adults age 65 and older. Participants begin with a short warm–up before moving into a variety of exercises that focus on strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility. Fitness equipment, such as dumbbells, resistance bands, and exercise balls are frequently used to build strength and improve stability. A chair is often incorporated for seated movement or standing support. This allows exercises to be performed safely and consistently, and provides modifications for seniors when needed. The classes also incorporate balance and coordination exercises, as well as occasional 10–to 15–minute cardio sessions. Each class concludes with a cool–down period to help participants stretch and recover.
Currently, Harry attends classes three times a week and credits the program with helping him stay active, maintain his independence, and improve his overall well–being. A typical workout for him includes standing behind a chair for support while performing calf raises, leg lifts, sit–to–stand exercises, and light resistance training with dumbbells. He appreciates the supportive atmosphere created by his instructor, who ensures participants receive guidance and encouragement.
Harry also expressed gratitude for Dr. Kashif Latif and the AM Diabetes and Endocrine Center, which offers a wide range of services, including diabetes education, nutrition support, and insulin pump assistance. He encourages others — whether or not they have diabetes — to explore programs like Silver Fit and discover the benefits of staying active. “One thing seniors need to do is get up off the couch and get out and work out,” Harry says. “There’s nothing hard about it.”
As a diabetic, Harry believes Silver Fit has played an important role in helping him manage his health. While he does take an antihyperglycemic medication to keep his blood sugar under control, he says the regular activity at Silver Fit helps support his overall diabetes care. “The physical activity helps keep my diabetes in line,” he explains.
The benefits of Silver Fit extend beyond physical health. For Harry, staying active means maintaining the ability to enjoy time with his grandchildren and great–grandchildren. It also means preserving his independence for as long as possible. “As long as I’m staying away from being a burden to my family, having to take care of me, the happier I am,” he says.
For Harry, the rewards are simple but meaningful: better health, stronger connections, and the ability to keep moving forward.
To learn more, visit: Am360fitness.com/silver-fit or call 901.384.0065.
By Alicia Johnson
Photo by Tindall Stephens
