The VON SMART Program (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) is a research and evidence based exercise and fall prevention program provided by the VON Erie St. Clair. SMART is designed for community members 55+ who, regardless of current levels of ability, wish to maintain or are deficit in one or more of the following areas: upper/lower body strength, balance and flexibility. The SMART program is ideal for individuals with barriers to traditional exercise groups due to health issues, mobility restrictions and/or chronic disease. All of our programs are client-focused, and tailored to the needs of participants. We include an educational component within our exercise classes detailing falls prevention strategies and interventions to help reduce fall risks. VON SMART Exercise classes and Fall Prevention workshops are FREE!
Our SMART Instructors are not physiotherapists, they are trained staff and volunteers who are certified through the VON SMART training program and/or the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging. They are dedicated to facilitating safe and effective exercise programs that promote healthy aging, independence and connection to the community. Accreditation Canada recently recognized the VON SMART program with a Leading Practice award. ***Referrals to all of our SMART programming can be made by and are not limited to: Physician, Director of Care, CCAC, PT/OT, Family member, or self.
SMART Rest & Retirement VON SMART Certified Group Fitness Instructor led classes within various Rest & Retirement Homes throughout Erie St. Clair. Hour long sessions, designed for client needs are provided at no cost to residents. Class components include cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance seated/standing, and warm-up/cool down. Current classes are happening across Erie St. Clair at various Rest & Retirement homes.
SMART in the Community VON SMART Group Classes led by SMART Certified Staff and Volunteers take place weekly in community locations near you! One-hour, High/Med/Low Intensity sessions for older adults and seniors. Specialty classes for individuals suffering from chronic conditions such as Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's, and Brain Injury/Stroke are also available.
SMART In-Home VON SMART Certified Staff and Volunteer-led one-on-one training sessions in your home. This programming is designed for individuals 55+ who have barriers to traditional exercise groups such as low mobility, lack of transportation, limited financial resources, and poor health. The program generally runs over 12 weeks. Clients are taught 15 simple, yet progressive exercises that help to improve strength, balance, mobility and safely moving through activities of daily living.