Tai Chi: What’s in a Name - SAGE Eldercare

Holly Sweeney-Hillman, Director of the Tai Chi Academy of Northern New Jersey, will lead a program entitled, “Tai Chi: What’s in a Name?” which will be held at SAGE Eldercare, 290 Broad Street, Summit, on Tuesday, March 6 from 10 am to 11 am. 

The discussion will focus on understanding the historical development of Tai Chi and the unique benefits it offers.     “SAGE has been hosting Tai Chi classes for local seniors because research shows that the movements improve balance, bone density, arthritis symptoms, immune function, mental acuity and cardiovascular fitness.  This is very beneficial with the elderly as a means of preventing falls and injuries,” stated Julie Reich, Director of Special Programs for SAGE.  “Many students begin Tai Chi to enjoy health benefits and find themselves in love with the beauty and tranquility of the movements, the social pleasure of practicing with other students, and the on-going challenge of mastering a complex and fascinating art,” added Ms. Sweeney-Hillman.  

Ms. Sweeney-Hillman also serves as Director for the International Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Association, which has thousands of members worldwide, overseeing teaching and training standards for instructors and judges.  She has been active with the Yang Family Association since 1995 when she began her studies with Grand Master Yang Zhenduo and his grandson, 5th and 6th generation Master Yang Jun.  She was appointed a Center Director in 2002 and earned Golden Tiger Rank in 2006. 

Ms. Sweeney-Hillman has a degree in Orthopedic Biomechanics from New York University.  Her continuing research on the science of movement and her passion for Tai Chi has inspired her to write numerous articles for the International Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Association Journal.  To register for the event or for additional information, please call 908.598.5548.   SAGE Eldercare also hosts weekly Tai Chi classes from 11am to 12:15 pm at 290 Broad Street, Summit.  Cost is $8 per session and the class is led by Ms. Sweeney-Hillman.  

SAGE Eldercare supports the independence, well-being and quality of life of older adults, their families and caregivers, through the provision of client-centered health, social and support services.  Founded in 1954, SAGE is both the oldest and one of the few non-profit eldercare agencies in the United States that offers a broad and comprehensive array of services under one roof that assist elderly, often frail, adults to remain independent in their own homes.  SAGE Eldercare programs include: HomeCare; Meals on Wheels; Spend-A-Day Adult Day Care Center; GPS; InfoCare free information and referral service; Fall Prevention Initiative; Home Repair Service; Grocery Shopping and Errand Service; Bill Paying Service; Alzheimer’s and PREP caregiver support groups; and SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program).  SAGE Eldercare serves over 5,000 older people and their families annually in Union, Essex, Morris and Somerset counties.  For more information, call 908.273.5550 or visit www.sageeldercare.org.