Senior Source: Clyde's Story

Never Felt Better

Watch out. At 68 years young, Clyde Prout is moving full steam ahead. There's Pilates or yoga in the morning and then tennis or a long run in the afternoon.

Clyde, a retired government worker, plans her daily activities based on the weather and her scheduled exercise classes. But Clyde would never call these classes "exercise." She says: "Now it's my way of life. Like brushing my teeth. I do it every day, no matter what, no matter where."

Many of Clyde's daily activities take place at the Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source in downtown Silver Spring. The center offers those age 55 and older programs that promote health and wellness through education and activities.

"We offer free or affordably priced traditional and nontraditional classes to meet the full spectrum of physical, emotional and mental needs," explains Michelle Blanc, manager, Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source.

A Great Place To Be

The 10,000-square-foot facility is designed for the comfort and convenience of those who participate in exercise classes, physician lectures, seminars and health screenings. And special accommodations are available for people with disabilities.

Of course, these comprehensive programs weren't on Clyde's mind when she started having back pain. "I used to wake up every morning and take pain relievers," she explains. "I was less active because I was in pain."

Clyde tried physical therapy to ease her back pain, but it was not a great fit for her lifestyle. Around that same time, a friend recommended Pilates, and Clyde was intrigued. "I tried it and have been going ever since," she says. "I can honestly say that Mat Pilates at the Senior Source has changed my life."

The Mat Pilates class develops core strength through exercises that focus on the abdomen, back and buttocks. "Jessica, the instructor, was there when I needed her most," Clyde explains. "She knew just how to influence me to do more without doing too much."

The instructors at the Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source are experts in their fields and have extensive experience working with older adults. "Many of our instructors hold certifications from 
national organizations," Michelle says.

Jessica encouraged Clyde to stick with Mat Pilates and taught her how to adjust moves that were uncomfortable. In time, Clyde began to notice a change. "As I gained more core strength, my back issues subsided and my strength and endurance improved. Today, I've never felt better in my life."

Engaging Programs

Designed with active adults in mind, the Senior Source offers many enjoyable programs. Our regularly offered programs include:

• Fitness and bodywork classes that build strength, increase endurance and improve flexibility (classes are offered at easy, moderate and challenging levels).
• Specialized exercise classes for those with specific medical conditions, including arthritis and Parkinson's disease.
• Support groups and health intervention workshops to help you cope with current health challenges and prevent the onset of chronic illness.
• Free health information and screenings, including blood pressure and flu shots 
  lectures by noted specialists.
• Seminars on financial planning, defensive driving, health, the arts and other relevant topics

Join Us at the Senior Source 

The center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information, call 301-754-8510.

Located at 8580 Second Avenue in downtown Silver Spring, the Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source is a partnership with the Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County, Md.; the Maryland Department of Aging; and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services.

Getting There

By Metro or bus: The Senior Source is just three blocks from the Silver Spring Metro station (red line). Once you exit the Metro station, follow Second Avenue to the Holy Cross Hospital Senior Source. 

By car: Parking is available on Cameron Street. Exit the garage on Cameron Street, and turn right. Cross the street at Second Avenue, and turn right. The Senior Source is ahead on your left.