A publication of The Colorado Trust
Español Menu

Mental & Behavioral Health

Gunnison Senior Center member Jane Knight, 79, participates in the SilverSneakers “Muscle Boom” class taught by retired physical therapist and instructor Gwen Pettit on Jan. 15, 2025, in Gunnison, Colo. Photo by John McEvoy / Special to The Colorado Trust

On a freezing minus-12-degree morning when the town of Gunnison’s streets are slick from a December snowstorm, two dozen seniors are warming up in a gym at the Gunnison Senior Center.

As Dolly Parton warbles “Jolene” on the sound system, they stretch resistance bands over their heads and bend and bob into leg-strengthening exercises. They all appear fit from decades of skiing, mountain biking and working in this outdoorsy community. Every one of them seems glad to be there. Some even sing along to the music.

But there is a sobering motivation behind this class offering.

Read the full article
Close