Health Promotion and Physical Activity Programs in Senior Centers

Abstract

This article describes health promotion programming in senior centers around the leading causes of death in adults age 65 and older. A national sample of 500 senior centers participated in a telephone interview from June to November 2006. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize programs offered, and chi-square statistics were used to compare programming between urban and rural centers. While many senior centers provided resources for chronic conditions and falls prevention, a significant proportion did not. Blood pressure monitoring and nutrition programs were the most frequently offered programs. Programs were more likely to be offered in urban than rural centers.

Keywords:

• senior center
• programs
• older adults