On the Move

by Jenna Greaves

Residents of Sonata Lake Mary, a senior living community, are having fun while staying active, thanks to a Seminole High School student.

Mira Nutakki, a 17-year-old senior, is the founder and leader of Movin’ ‘N Groovin’, a mobility program that promotes intergenerational connection, exercise, and joy. She has offered the class to Sonata residents since April and has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

Movin’ ‘N Groovin’ combines gentle mobility stretches, games, and competitions – all set to music – to foster wellness and community. Mira came up with the idea after her grandmother, Devi Nutakki, was diagnosed with cancer. 

“When she got cancer, at first it took a mental toll on her,” says Mira. “I remember she just felt really alone, and she wasn’t moving as much as she should.”

While Devi was undergoing treatment, Mira encouraged her to incorporate movement into her daily routine by taking her on walks. 

Exercising not only helped Devi physically, it also improved her state of mind. So did spending that extra time with Mira.

“It’s about having someone there to motivate you,” says Mira.

It’s Not Just Fun and Games 

She realized other older adults might need a little extra motivation, too. So, Mira reached out to senior living communities in the area and found a home for Movin’ ‘N Groovin’ at Sonata Lake Mary. The program quickly took flight. Seniors came with their friends and made new ones during class.

“Everbody is happy and smiling,” says Linda Farelli, one of the class members. “It really isn’t exercise, it’s games.”

Participants say the classes make them feel like a kid again. That’s because Mira’s mobility program incorporates an upbeat song playlist and games such as beanbag toss contests, balloon volleyball, and mock bowling. Along the way, the seniors build coordination and confidence.

“A lot of seniors don’t value exercising as much as they should,” says Mira, “so this is a way to get them to exercise without having to really think about it.”

All of the exercises are strategically planned to fit participants’ different needs and abilities, so everyone feels welcome and capable. 

Making an Impact

Mira, whose career goal is to be a physician, says there is much to be learned from the older adults she teaches.

“This program has taught me a lot about empathy and how to talk to different groups of people,” she says. “In the healthcare field, you have to be able to treat people with respect and with empathy.” 

Sadly, Mira’s grandmother passed away in May, but she knew about the Movin’ ‘N Groovin’ class and was proud of Mira for starting the program.

“I believe the impact Movin’ ‘N Groovin’ has had speaks to the power of small initiatives,” says Mira, “and how young people can also help support their communities in creative ways.”

Mira hopes her program will inspire more students to take action and make a difference in the lives of others.

“Recognize something that you can address, or something that you can have an impact with,” she says. “Be willing to dedicate your time in order to help your community become a little bit better of a place.”