Active Generations expands wellness programs for women’s health, Parkinson’s
5 hours ago
July 15, 2026
This piece is sponsored by Active Generations
Whether it’s a specialized fitness class to help manage Parkinson’s disease or a candid conversation about menopause, Active Generations wants adults to know they do not have to navigate major health transitions alone
The Sioux Falls-based nonprofit is expanding its wellness programming with a focus on areas where adults often need more support after medical care ends or as they move through new stages of life
“We are officially living in the longevity era,” said Betsy Schuster, president and CEO of Active Generations. “Local adults aren’t just looking to live longer — they want to live better, maintaining their strength, vitality and independence into later decades.”
Two initiatives are helping advance that mission this year: expanded Parkinson’s programming supported by a national grant and a new women’s wellness event focused on hormone health
Expanding access for Parkinson’s programming
Since launching in March, Active Generations’ Parkinson’s Pathway programming has served more than 50 individuals and caregivers
Now, support from a 2026 Community Grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation will allow Active Generations to eliminate participation fees for local adults and caregivers using the specialized programming
“We are incredibly honored to be selected for this grant,” Schuster said. “By eliminating costs, we can better serve local families and help participants maintain their independence, strength and confidence in a supportive environment.”
The need is significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, South Dakota has an age-adjusted Parkinson’s death rate of 9.6 per 100,000 residents
For Active Generations, that underscores the importance of accessible, community-based programs designed to support movement, confidence and connection
The grant-funded programming includes Strength for Parkinson’s classes at both the Main Campus, 2300 W. 46th St., and East Campus, 5500 E. Active Gen Place
The Parkinson’s program also includes South Dakota’s official Ping Pong Parkinson chapter, which uses table tennis to support cognitive focus, agility and hand-eye coordination. Other activities include structured sing-alongs and beanbag games designed to help participants manage symptoms, build confidence and connect with others
Spouses and caregivers are encouraged to participate
Building pathways to better health
The Parkinson’s Pathway is one part of Active Generations’ broader ActiveHealth Pathways framework, recently launched to help adults improve their health, strength and confidence at every stage of their wellness journey
“ActiveHealth Pathways are designed for adults at any stage of their wellness journey,” Schuster said. “Whether you’re transitioning out of medical care, preparing for surgery, returning to fitness after a long break, have never exercised before or simply want guidance on how to get started, our goal is to provide a safe, supportive pathway that builds confidence and helps you create lasting healthy habits.”
The pathways include programming for functional fitness, cardiac and pulmonary recovery, orthopedic recovery, weight management and individuals navigating illness, surgery, chronic disease or other health concerns
While the Parkinson’s Pathway features evidence-based group classes, the Cardiac, Functional Fitness, Weight Management and Orthopedic pathways are offered as structured eight-week fitness programs. Each includes personal training sessions, an individualized exercise plan and access to Active Generations’ fitness facilities
The eight-week pathways are available for $199, and a provider referral is not required to participate
New summit focuses on women’s health
Active Generations also is addressing another area where many adults are looking for more information and support: women’s health
On Saturday, Sept. 12, the organization will host its inaugural Women’s Wellness Summit at the East Campus. Presented by Avera, the half-day event is designed for women in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, with a focus on hormone health
“We wanted to create an environment where research becomes interactive,” Schuster said. “This summit gives women in the Sioux Falls area a chance to sit with local experts, ask real questions about lifestyle balance and leave with actionable advice to optimize their well-being at any stage of life.”
Avera health care experts will lead a keynote address titled “Navigating Hormonal Transitions,” focused on functional wellness, perimenopause and menopause
Attendees also can choose from breakout sessions that include lifestyle Q&As with wellness professionals and beginner-friendly fitness introductions such as TRX, pickleball and strength training
And for those looking to truly de-stress? There’s even an optional puppy yoga session featuring adoptable dogs from Almost Home Canine Rescue, sponsored by Xcel Energy
How to participate
For Parkinson’s programming: Registration is open for the free, grant-funded classes. Spouses and caregivers are encouraged to participate together
For ActiveHealth Pathways: Visit activegenerations.org/activehealth-pathways to find the best option for you
For the Women’s Wellness Summit: Tickets are on sale now at $30 for members and $45 for nonmembers. Registration includes full access to presentations, swag and a healthy breakfast from Simply Good Cafe, sponsored by Legacy Law Firm. Space is limited for puppy yoga
To register for classes, buy summit tickets or learn more about the various wellness pathways, visit activegenerations.org or call 605-336-6722, Option 1
Tags: Active Generations
