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HEALTHY
AGING
The Secret to Healthy Aging
— Keeping Seniors ACTIVE
It is widely known that staying mentally and physically active helps keep
the brain and muscles alert. But there’s more to healthy aging.
Socialization is also crucial to help aging seniors stay young.
That is the principle on which San Antonio OASIS was founded. Another vital component to the OASIS program is volunteerism.
At San Antonio OASIS, “we offer educational classes and volunteer San Antonio OASIS has over 250 volunteers locally. Volunteer op-
opportunities to promote successful aging through lifelong learning.” portunities include: office staff, group exercise leaders, class instructors,
executive director Brenda Schmachtenberger said. various committees, as well as the intergenerational tutoring program.
OASIS founder, Marylen Mann originally established OASIS in The tutoring program is the largest volunteer program that San An-
1982 in St. Louis. It was a time when many programs for older adults tonio OASIS offers. Over 120 tutors work with 150 children in 4
were oriented around games and passive activities. OASIS pioneered school districts. The program gives volunteers the opportunity to
stimulating educational, wellness and volunteer programs that helped work one-on-one with first, second and third grade students who the
older adults stay healthy and engaged within their communities. The school has identified as needing help in reading.
OASIS program is now in 9 cities throughout the country.
Researchers Rowe and Kahn found that the key ingredients for a
San Antonio OASIS was founded in 1991, and boasts over 23,000 high quality of life are maintaining a low risk for disease, a high level
members. Membership is free with the only requirement being that of engagement with the community and high physical and cognitive
members are over the age of 50. Classes are offered in 25 locations function. “It is the combination of all three that represents the concept
across Bexar County, and include classes in Arts and Humanities, of successful aging fully.” That is the philosophy behind San Antonio
Health, Fitness, Consumer Interest and Technology. OASIS also of- OASIS. For more information, call San Antonio OASIS at (210) 236-
fers educational day trips and overnight trips as well. 5954, or visit their website at www.oasisnet.org/sanantonio.
visit us at www.bcms.org 27
