Geriatrics and Extended Care
Gerofit - A Program Promoting Exercise and Health for Older Veterans
What is Gerofit?
Gerofit is an exercise program that promotes health & wellness for Veterans. Participants in the program have demonstrated improved health, mental, physical function and well-being.
Gerofit is a great way for Veterans to stay active by using a variety of strength and aerobic exercises. Also, by participating in group classes like tai chi, dancing, walking, and balance. For those who don’t live near an available Gerofit site, click on the Gerofit Resources and the How do I join? tabs to find out how we can help.
All veterans are given a personalized exercise prescription and guidance in carrying out the exercise program is provided by trained exercise staff such as a physiologists, nurses or physical therapists
Starting in Durham in 1986, the program is now offered at 33 different VA Healthcare Systems around the country. For a list of locations click on the Gerofit Locations tab.
How do I Join?
There are flagship Gerofit programs offered at 33 VA Healthcare Systems around the country. For a list of locations click on the Gerofit Locations tab to find a Gerofit Program near you. Some programs also offer telehealth services for individuals unable to attend onsite facilites.
To be eligible for the program:
- You must be a Veteran enrolled with the Veterans Health Administration.
- Your overall health should be stable and sufficient for you to participate without needing continuous assistance.
Talk to your primary care provider about joining Gerofit if you are near one of the 33 existing Gerofit Programs.
If you do not live close to one of our flagship Gerofit programs reach out to the National Outreach Physiologist. If you're unable to click the link then please email: vhadurgerofit2@va.gov.
Additional resources can be found on the Gerofit Resources tab.
Gerofit Resources
Other Non VA Exercise Programs
Learn about other community programs for staying active including:
- Silver Sneakers An exercise program for active, older adults. Walking weight training and yoga. Silver Sneakers.com
- Go4Life (National Institute of Aging Campaign) Helps you fit exercise and physical activity into your daily life. Offers exercise tips, and free resources to help you get ready, start exercising, and stay active. Go4Life Web page
Where is Gerofit Located?
Gerofit is currently offered at 33 VA locations around the country. For implementation information please contact the following staff. For a list of VA locations please see below. If you live too far away to attend please see the Gerofit Resources tab for other opportunities.
Katherine Hall, Ph.D.
Program Director
Durham VA Medical Center GRECC
Telephone: (919) 286-0411 ext 176734
Email: Katherine.hall3@va.gov
Megan Pearson, M.A.
Gerofit National Enterprise Program Manager
Durham VA Medical Center GRECC
Telephone: (919) 286-0411 ext 175323
Email: Megan.Pearson@va.gov
Tyara Mason, M.S.
National Outreach Exercise Physiologist
Durham VA Medical Center GRECC
Telephone: (919) 286-0411 ext 176770
Email: Tyara.Mason@va.gov
