According to the National Council on Aging, for most older adults, good health ensures independence, security and productivity as they age. Yet millions struggle every day with health and safety challenges such as chronic disease, falls and mental health issues - all of which can severely impact quality of life. This is especially true of the senior population in Central Falls, Rhode Island, where 32 percent of residents live below the federal poverty line, and 27 percent have no health insurance.

These significant socioeconomic challenges have been proven to negatively impact the health status of people. With no or limited access to athletic facilities, minimal greenspace for outside recreational opportunities, and additional transportation barriers, the residents of Central Falls know this all too well.

Helping seniors stay healthy, physically active and strong is part of Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island’s core mission. Recognizing the great need in this community, in 2016, BCBSRI invested $10,000 to fund a senior health program. Five days per week a BCBSRI-sponsored shuttle picks up approximately 50 seniors from three Central Falls senior housing complexes as well as the Progreso Latino community center and brings them to the Pawtucket Family YMCA.

Participants visit the Y for a combination of fitness programming, educational programs about health and fitness, health screenings and socializing. This partnership with the Pawtucket Family YMCA provides physical activity, community connection and healthcare to seniors without means to otherwise access these pillars of healthy living. The program allows each senior a two-hour per day window at the Y in which to exercise, attend a program (such as Zumba or water aerobics) or health session and meet with friends or neighbors. It also offers seniors access to highly trained staff who provide personalized instruction, water safety or healthcare tips, screening and education - all free of charge.

This partnership has continued to thrive and expand over the past three years through an annual $10,000 grant from BCBSRI, who is committed to healthy again for all Rhode Island seniors. For more information about the senior fitness program or a shuttle schedule, please contact the Pawtucket Family YMCA at ymcapawtucket.org/pawtucket-family/senior.php or (401) 727-7900.