Leading Tomorrow’s Senior Centers

American society has traditionally desired “quick fixes” such as prescription drugs to treat physical and mental health conditions, which may contribute to the one-third of older adults over the age of 65 who lead sedentary lifestyles. However, a growing body of research suggests that disease-prevention approaches and healthier behaviors can offer longer-term societal and economic benefits. Senior centers can enhance individuals’ health-behavior change through preventive approaches and high-quality programs. Given today’s fiscal environment, senior centers may be interested in learning more about economically savvy approaches to promoting healthy lifestyles through community-based programs and services known to prevent the onset of chronic conditions and risk of injury. The participation in health-promoting and disease-preventing programs will further assist older adults in overcoming barriers to mobility and transportation, maintaining independence, and achieving better overall health and well-being