As the nation gears up to observe American Heart Month in February, Senior Friendship Centers (SFC) highlights its programs that help address the leading drivers of illness, disability, death, and escalating healthcare costs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as we age, we are more at risk for chronic diseases such as dementias, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. Heart disease alone costs the US healthcare system $216 billion per year and accounts for approximately 2 out of 10 deaths in Florida. The American Heart Association suggests that adhering to lifestyle behaviors such as being physically active, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight has a positive impact on cardiovascular health. With 367,897 adults in Sarasota County, 156,703 being seniors, Senior Friendship Centers offers older adults’ programs that are designed to help prevent heart disease through Activity Centers, Adult Day Cares and Nutrition Services. Senior Friendship Centers serves as a vibrant hub for seniors, offering a wide variety of activities that improve cardiovascular fitness and maintain optimal physical health. At the Activity Centers, older adults enjoy classes such as Zumba, Tai Chi, Line Dancing, Pickleball, and Balance Movement, as well as Nutrition and Cooking workshops. Moreover, for seniors with dementia and other mild cognitive impairments, The Caregiving Place’s Adult Day Care program offers low-impact exercises such as chair yoga and stretching. In addition, meals served through our activity centers, adult day cares, neighborhood dining locations and home-delivered meals are reviewed by a registered dietician to ensure optimal intake and meet daily nutritional guidelines for older adults. Through these programs, seniors can actively reduce the risk of heart disease by participating in exercise activities and having access to nutrient-rich meals. For more information about our Activity Centers, visit our website at www.friendshipcenters.org or contact us at (941) 955- 2122. For more information about our Adult Day Care program or to schedule a tour, call (941) 556 3268.