The following is a publication of the City of Santa Monica.
May is Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of mental health, and how staying active can help. Here are some tips for promoting good mental health and wellness:
- Take care of your physical health: A healthy body leads to a healthy mind. Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly.
- Stay connected: Connect with family, friends, and your community. Social connections are vital for good mental health.
- Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to focus on the present moment. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Seek help when needed: If you are struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Talk to a friend or family member, or seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.
Incorporating active transportation, such as walking, biking, or even taking public transportation, into your daily routine can have a positive impact on your mental health. Not only does physical activity stimulate the release of endorphins, but it also helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Active transportation can also provide a sense of community and connection to your surroundings, which can improve your overall mood and well-being. So, next time you’re planning your commute or running errands, consider choosing an active transportation option and give your mental health a boost!
May is also National Bike Month! Established in 1956, National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many benefits of bicycling — and encourage more folks to give biking a try. Whether you’re riding for fun, fitness or with family, or taking essential trips to work or shop, you are part of our movement for safer streets, connected communities, a healthier planet, and happier people. Check out the Santa Monica Spoke website for more ways to celebrate Bike Month!
- Walk-in Tutoring at the Main Branch Library: Thursday, May 4, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (The City of Santa Monica and Big Blue Bus will be here to share information about Active Aging Pilot Program, Metro On the Move Riders Club, Senior TAP Card, and Lyft MODE.)
- Technology Class at Virginia Avenue Park – Patio Room: Wednesday, May 10, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Bicycle Safety Class at WISE & Healthy Aging: Monday, May 15, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Group Walk / Coffee Chat at Douglas Park / Groundwork Coffee Co.: Tuesday, May 16, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Kidical Mass Bicycle Outing at Clover Park: Sunday, May 21, 9:00 AM – Noon
- Walking/Transit Safety Class at WISE & Healthy Aging: Monday, May 22, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Walking/Transit Outing to Ballona Creek Park: Tuesday, May 30, 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Meet at 4th / Santa Monica Big Blue Bus station)
We hope you will join us for one or more of these events this month. Let’s work together to enjoy life to the fullest.
Recap: A Look Back at Our April Events!
Bicycle Outing along the Expo Bike Path
On April 5th, 12 older adults joined a bicycle outing along the Santa Monica Expo bike path, led by Cynthia Rose from Santa Monica Spoke, who is an older adult herself. Veo provided sit-down scooters for those without their own bikes to try out for free. Participants raved about the safety of the separated bike path and the fun experience of trying out new micro-mobility methods.
Bicycle Safety Class at the Pico Branch Library
On April 12th, Cynthia Rose from Santa Monica Spoke led a bicycle safety class at the Pico Branch Library for 5 older adults. As a certified instructor by the League of American Bicyclists, Cynthia emphasized the importance of the ABC Quick check, which includes checking the Air for tire pressure, Brakes, Chain, Cranks, Cassette, and Quick release before every ride. The class also covered rules of the road and other important bike safety tips. Participants left the class feeling more confident about riding a bike and sharing the road with automobiles.
| Walking/Transit Outing to California Science Museum On April 18th, 10 older adults joined a walk/transit outing to the California Science Center, accompanied by two volunteers from Metro On the Move Riders Club. We took the Metro Expo Rail line for 14 stops from Downtown Santa Monica Station to Expo Park/USC Station, where we learned how to use TAP cards, get reduced fares for seniors and LIFE riders, and read metro maps. Participants enjoyed the Science Center tour and especially appreciated socializing at the event. If you’re interested in joining the May outing, be sure to sign up through the link above. Furthermore, please check out Metro On the Move Riders Program if you’re interested in becoming a riding buddy. |
If you missed out on these events, don’t worry – sign up for our May events listed above. If you attended any of these events, thank you and we’d love to see you again in May!
| Save the Date! Join Our Senior Mobility Expo on June 3rd! Mark your calendars! On Saturday, June 3rd, 2023, we’re hosting the Active Aging Mobility Expo at Clover Park (Ocean Park Blvd and 25th St), an event designed to connect seniors with a variety of active transportation opportunities. This expo is perfect for older adults who are interested in exploring using transit, learning more about safe walking, and different biking options such as recumbent bikes, e-bikes, bike share, and shared seated scooters. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the program and get all the information you need. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that’s all about staying active and mobile as you age! |
Join Our Active Aging Ambassador Program!
The Santa Monica Active Aging Ambassador Program is open to anyone who wants to help older adults connect to transportation options like walking, biking, and taking transit. We know that personal stories and connections are two of the most meaningful ways for someone to learn about a new program and get inspired to try new transportation options. That is why we are recruiting Active Aging Ambassadors to help us spread the word about the pilot program.
As an Active Aging Ambassador, you will receive information about the program to share with your friend, family, neighbors, and anyone else you think would be interested. You will also have a chance to share a story to help inspire older adults in your community to connect to more ways to get around.
Becoming an Ambassador is easy. Simply fill out this quick on-line form and an Active Aging program staff member will reach out to you!
