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Chilliwack seniors see the benefits of healthy living at new ‘Independent Plus’ residence

Making new friendships and healthy habits is easy at The Hawthorn at Elim Village Garrison Crossing
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Residents of The Hawthorn are enjoying a variety of new wellness programs designed to support both mind and body.

Healthy mind, healthy body and vice-versa as they say! Residents of The Hawthorn building in Elim Village’s Garrison Crossing in Chilliwack are enjoying a variety of new wellness programs designed to support both mind and body now that the new Hawthorn building is fully up and running.

While all the wellness programs are growing in popularity, the exercise classes led by ELIM’s Concierge, Kelly Kallevig, have become quite the favourite among residents.

Kallevig has been with Elim Village for more than a year and her time there has allowed her to build many close relationships with residents at The Hawthorn and surrounding Independent Living buildings. The launch of the new exercise programs provided a natural venue for even further connection.

Exercise classes can be intimidating and challenging for seniors, but these barriers are removed within a safe and familiar relationship, like with Kallevig. Her personal connection with residents provides her with the knowledge to support their unique needs, and her lively and energetic character makes her a natural cheerleader, with residents feeling supported in their efforts. Classes are designed to be stress-free, with two styles to choose from: Functional Fitness and Chair Fitness.

“Kelly is great at leading the classes! She always makes sure we’re doing the movements properly and safely,” says Hawthorn resident Hermie. “It’s so nice that the exercise classes are right here at The Hawthorn. I like that I don’t have to travel far to exercise – it makes it so much easier to attend them regularly. And since every class is different, we never get bored.”

Elim Village’s Concierge, Kelly Kallevig leading residents in one of her exercise classes.
Elim Village’s Concierge, Kelly Kallevig leading residents in one of her exercise classes.

Garrison Crossing residents recently had the opportunity to cheer on their favourite exercise coach and Concierge, as Kallevig took a step towards achieving one of her own life-long goals—qualifying for the Boston Marathon. To do this, she needed to complete the California International Marathon under a specific time.

The Hawthorn residents watched the race live online as Kallevig successfully qualified for the 2024 Boston Marathon recently in Sacramento and, upon her return home, she received a warm welcome from her cheer squad, including Hermie!

“I’ve always had a passion and love for fitness, and I’ve seen the benefits mentally and physically in my own life. It’s exciting to be able to help residents feel connected, supported, and encouraged, and to see the results of good healthy habits,” says Kallevig. “The main lesson I want them to take away is ‘thriving rather than surviving,’ and they’ll gain the mental and physical power to do so by joining the exercise classes and participating in other wellness activities.”

Find more information on The Hawthorn and the variety of unique amenities and services they offer here or call 604-769-0022, or email garrisoncrossing@elimvillage.com. Find them on Facebook here or stay up-to-date by subscribing to the mailing list here.