102-year-old leads exercise classes at senior living home

102-year-old leads exercise classes at senior living home

“When I get old, I’ll quit.”

An elderly woman doing exercise in a chair
An elderly woman doing exercise in a chair/Facebook/@bethq2

It is super inspiring to see people who are much, much older than us doing things that are not generally associated with their age group. 

Their go-getter attitude is what many of us need as we move within a world that hands us a plethora of challenges. 

Sometimes, just staying true to yourself and your mission in life is what you need to focus on. That's exactly what 102-year-old Jean Bailey does on a day-to-day basis.

Bailey has been teaching a fitness class four times a week in the hallway of the second floor at Elk Ridge Village Senior Living in Omaha for about three years. 

And the best part of her attitude is that she doesn't plan on slowing down anytime soon. 

“When I get old, I’ll quit,” said Bailey, who has lived at Elk Ridge for about 14 years. (Washington Post)

Bailey, who often uses a walker to help her move around, is said to be a tough coach. 

“They tease me and said I’m mean, because when we do exercises, I want them to do it right and use your muscles,” she said." (Washington Post)

She was motivated to start the classes during the pandemic. She wanted to keep fit and invited others to come out into the hallway with their chairs so they could do some socially distanced exercise. 

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Over and above the exercise class, she also has formed a sistership with the women in her class. 

She also makes an effort to make the women feel special, with some after-exercise treats. 

"I really feel that if you don’t keep your mind and body busy, then why are you here?” Bailey said." (Washington Post)

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