Strength in Aging Squad: More Than an Hour of Movement

By C², Connie Colleen Wyatt, Occupational Therapist, PNW Home for Life PLLC and Holly Berard

At the end of our most recent Strength in Aging Squad class, we did something simple but powerful. We paused. We stood in a loose circle. And each person shared one thing they were taking with them from the hour we spent together.

What came out of that circle is the reason this group exists.

Phyllis said she was taking home all the smiling faces.
Tisa shared that she could do all of the movements today.
Terry reminded us that there is strength in numbers.
Catherine appreciated the beautiful sunshine we enjoyed together.
Cyndi said she was grateful for the wonderful group of people and that she was glad to be back.
And I shared something that made my heart swell—we have a new friend here today.

That’s the Strength in Aging Squad in a nutshell.

Yes, we lift weights.
Yes, we work on balance, posture, and mobility.
But what we are really building is connection.

A Group for Every Stage of Aging

The Strength in Aging Squad brings together people from all walks of “aging.” Different bodies. Different stories. Different abilities. One shared goal: to keep showing up for ourselves and for each other.

Some members are rebuilding strength. Others are maintaining it. Some are navigating diagnoses. Others are simply choosing to invest in their future selves. Everyone belongs.

Each week, we spend an hour moving together—intentionally, safely, and with a lot of encouragement. We celebrate effort, not perfection. We modify when needed. We cheer when someone surprises themselves.

And at the end, we reflect. Because aging well isn’t just about physical strength. It’s about meaning, belonging, and being seen.

Why This Matters

Isolation is one of the greatest threats to health as we age. Movement helps, but community AND getting outside multiplies the benefits. When people feel supported, they move better. They try harder. They laugh more. They come back.

That’s what this squad is creating—consistency, confidence, and connection.

If you want to learn more about the program, you can read about it here:
👉 https://pnwhomeforlife.com/sas/

Gratitude Where It’s Due

A huge thank-you to Rockpile Dojo for generously donating their space each week. Having a welcoming, supportive place to gather makes all the difference, and we are deeply grateful.

The Strength in Aging Squad is proof that it’s never too late to get stronger—and that strength looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s lifting heavier. Sometimes it’s showing up. Sometimes it’s smiling at the person next to you and realizing you’re not doing this alone.

And sometimes, it’s leaving with a new friend.

Strength grows faster when it’s shared.

By C²
connie@pnwhomeforlife.com
360-770-1752