DECATUR - They stretched. They ate. They bingoed.

Seniors across town enjoyed local offerings for Senior Health & Fitness Day on Wednesday, a national event geared toward helping promote active, healthy lifestyles among older people.

The Decatur Indoor Sports Center encouraged visitors to test their skills on some Wii Fit video games and offered information and health screenings from various local agencies and businesses.

Jeff Rounds, DISC fitness center supervisor, mixed two smoothie flavors for the early-morning crowd. He said the event was geared toward getting more seniors into the facility and helping them become aware of local programs and services geared toward them, such as the DISC's upcoming Wii Wednesdays league for people 50 and older.

"That's an important part of the senior lifestyle, having camaraderie and something to do," Rounds said.

Staying active is crucial for seniors, he added.

"As we age, things start to fall apart," Rounds said, adding that maintaining a level of activity keeps muscles and bones in good condition and reduces the risk of falls or injuries.

Among the activities featured at the Greater Decatur Y were trial fitness classes, a health fair, breakfast, lunch and a seminar on preventing identity theft and avoiding scams.

Donna Jordan, human resources director of the Decatur Family YMCA, which has participated in the event for seven or eight years, said the day also provides a social outlet for many.

"This is a good opportunity for them to interact with other people," Jordan said, estimating that 150 to 200 people would drop by Wednesday. "We're grateful for our senior population and our members' loyalty."

Jordan said word seems to be getting out about the importance of physical activity for seniors. "I think the most important thing is just keep moving," she said.

A group of ladies that knows a lot about staying on the go is the arthritis exercise class that meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. At Wednesday's event, Gail James, Judy Cummins, Betty Cummings and Ellen Miller ate lunch with others from their exercise class.

The classes have brought a core group of about 15 women together for more than 10 years.

"We get in a circle while we exercise," said Miller.

The women have coffee and lunch together most days, and many look out for each other and continue their friendship on other outings and day trips. A few have planned a vacation to Alaska later this year.

"We have a wonderful time," Cummins said.

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