Senior Swim Season Kicks Off With Pool Party In Harlem

Photo by Malcolm Pinckney

Age-friendly Program Expands to 14 Outdoor Pools Citywide, Offering Quiet, Relaxing Time For Older New Yorkers to Exercise and Socialize

On July 9, First Deputy Commissioner for NYC Parks & Recreation Liam Kavanagh joined Department for the Aging Commissioner Lilliam Barrios-Paoli, Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito, Council Member Jessica Lappin, and the Senior Vice President for Policy and Planning at The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM) Ruth Finkelstein to announce the launch of designated Senior Swim hours at 14 public pools citywide.

This represents a citywide expansion from the original pilot program of seven pools Senior Swim hours offer adults a stress-free, quieter time to socialize, swim, stretch, and enjoy the benefits of water in NYC Parks’ outdoor pools. The program runs through August 24, and is open to those over the age of 62. The Harlem Honey and Bears Swim Club, a synchronized swimming group for adults 50 and older, kicked off the Senior Swim with a synchronized performance.

The event is part of Age Friendly NYC, New York City’s plan to sustain and enhance its age-friendliness for its growing population of seniors, led by the Office of the Mayor, the New York City Council, and NYAM. Age Friendly NYC is a series of 59 initiatives aimed at making New York a more livable City for its growing senior population. Age Friendly NYC has several neighborhood-level projects aiming to make improvements for older adults called Aging Improvement Districts.

As part of Age-friendly New York City, NYC Parks has launched a “senior portal” on the Agency’s website, making it easier for older adults to find the activities, events and facilities that interest them. Membership to a Parks Recreation Center costs only $25 a year for seniors 62+ to join. Many centers offer dedicated hours for senior activities.

In addition, Walk NYC is a free fitness walking program that takes place in parks across the city. Although the program is open to all ages, the instructor will modify the pace and activity level for walkers, making it a great way for people of all abilities to get fit.

For more information on Senior Swim, please visit www.nyc.gov/parks.

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