ORLANDO, Fla. — Staying independent as you age can mean finding new ways to keep moving — and knowing where to turn for support.
Hundreds of Central Florida residents had a chance to explore both on Wednesday during Healthy Seniors Day, a free community event hosted by Senior Resource Alliance and the YMCA of Central Florida.
All 15 YMCA Family Centers in six counties hosted community activities like pickleball, Zumba, and aquatic exercises. Senior Resource Alliance provided tai chi and fall prevention classes in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Brevard counties.
Beyond exercise, the event connected older adults and their families with information about Medicare counseling, local assistance and other services.
Attendees learned about Senior Resource Alliance’s Elder Helpline, SHINE Medicare counseling, and its Abuse Neglect and Exploitation Prevention Program. Other organizations shared local resources, and YMCA staff provided info on memberships and programs.
Senior Resource Alliance also distributed storm supplies to residents still experiencing the effects of Hurricane Ian.
For families concerned about a loved one wandering, the organization handed out scent-preservation kits. According to the alliance, the kits can preserve a person’s unique scent for up to 10 years to assist in missing-person searches, including searches for people with dementia or autism.
Healthy Seniors Day exemplifies the Y’s mission—uniting people and providing neighbors with resources to stay healthy, active, and connected at all ages," said Kevin Bolding, president and CEO of the YMCA of Central Florida.
Older adults and caregivers seeking assistance can learn more here.
Information about local YMCA memberships, programs and services are available here.
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