Sep 9, 2026
Healthy Aging | Lifestyle Choices for Ease & Longevity
Healthy Aging at Any Age
Healthy aging is the process of maintaining good physical, mental, and social health and well-being as we grow older.
We can promote healthy aging within ourselves by:
- adopting healthy habits and making positive lifestyle choices that contribute to overall well-being as we age
- ideally, starting early in life to avoid many health complications that may arise in later life
- knowing it's never too late to adopt healthier habits for positive change
What you can do
Healthy aging means adopting healthy habits and making positive lifestyle choices that contribute to better health and well-being as we grow older.
These habits may include:
- Nutrition: Maintain a healthy, balanced diet. See our Nutrition Philosophy
- Physical activity: Keep your body active by doing regular exercise. See our Physical Activity Philosophy.
- Mental functioning: Keep your mind stimulated and get enough sleep.
- Social well-being: Stay socially connected and engaged with others in your community.
- Emotional well-being: Take care of your emotional well-being, including managing stress, having a positive outlook, and seeking support when needed.
- Injury prevention: Try to avoid falls and other injuries by taking precautions and practicing safe driving.
- Health care routine: Keep up with regular health checkups, vaccines, and screenings; and manage any chronic conditions.
Learn more about healthy aging from the CDC
Resources for Aging
Erie County Department of Aging
Promoting the well-being of all older adults through coordinated and cost-effective services which enhance their independence, dignity, and quality of life.
For free, impartial information, call (716) 858-8526 and speak to a case manager today!
Fitness
Club 99
Rediscover the joy of movement with our free fitness program for older adults!
Club 99 is designed to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall wellness, this program offers a safe and supportive environment where you can stay active at your own pace. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, improve mobility, or simply enjoy a fun and engaging workout, our trainers will guide you every step of the way. It's never too late to prioritize your health and well-being—join us today and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier you! Click this link to see the list for current class locations and schedules!
Home care
Homecare refers to services that may be available to help people remain independent in their own homes. Care may be for a short duration, perhaps after discharge from a hospital; or long term, continuing for months or years.
There are many different levels of aide service and a variety of means to pay for these services. Erie County Department for the Aging may offer financial assistance based on a needs assessment and availability of funds. To arrange an in-home visit or for further information, please call (716) 858-8526.
Nutrition
The Stay Fit Dining program serves hot, nutritious meals at various locations around Erie County, Monday-Friday at noon. It is available to individuals 60 years old or older. A suggested confidential contribution is $3.50 is appreciated but not required.
Stay Fit Dining Frozen Congregate Meal Program offers participants frozen meals to ensure they have food in their home when they need it. Meals are available for pick up once a week in 3, 5, 6, 8 or 10-pack varieties. A contribution of $3.50 per meal ($10.50 per 3-pack, $17.50 per 5-pack) is suggested, but any amount is appreciated and goes toward the improvement of the meals.
Nutrition Counseling is offered for free through the Contact our NY Connects line. Call 716-858-8526 to learn more!
Nutrition Workshops are offered by the nutrition team at Erie County Department of Aging. These workshops can help you in your journey of eating well while saving money at the same time!
Farmers Market Coupons are offered seasonally to residents aged 60+ who meet income requirements. This program helps provide older adults with access to fresh, locally grown, nutritious foods while supporting our local farmer's and small businesses.
Home Delivered Meals are available to people aged 60 and over who cannot shop or prepare their own meals.. If you or someone you know, is unable to take care of meal preparation, a call to (716) 858-8526 can initiate an in-home evaluation for home-delivered meals as well as any other benefits or services for which the older person may be eligible.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits make it easier to put healthy, nutritious food on the table for everyone who qualifies. Erie County's Department of Aging has a case management team to assist people in applying for this benefit and learning about the program.
Food Pantries and Soup Kitchens are located throughout Erie County to serve emergency needs and provide assistance. For more information, or to find a location near you, please call NY Connects at (716)858-8526.
Recreation & Wellness
Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) connects adults 55+ with meaningful volunteer opportunities that fit their interests, skills, and schedule. With over 400 volunteers serving at more than 40 sites across Erie County, the program keeps older adults active and engaged through civic involvement and community service.
Senior Centers are available across WNY and are great places to connect with your community, engage in health and wellness offers, and learn about helpful resources. Many senior centers, like the Orchard Park Senior Center, have a variety of free offerings for town residents aged 55+ with proof of residency. Contact your local senior center today to learn more and see their current calendar of offerings!
University Express offers free educational classes for older adults in Erie County. The program runs during spring and fall semesters. You can find classes in a variety of categories, including current affairs, history, humanities, finance and medicine. Stimulate your mind and build social connections through a variety of engaging classes!
Falls Preventionare educational classes that cover topics including exercise, mindset, home safety, vision, tips from individuals with a shared concern, and much more. You will work with a group to overcome a fear of falling and learn how to protect yourself from falls!
Transportation
As a service to older adults (aged 60+) in Erie County, in collaboration with community partners, the Department for the Aging offers the Going Places Transportation Program.
The curb-to-curb van service is available to seniors who are unable to use conventional means of transportation.
Call (716) 858-RIDE or (716) 858-7433 - 8:30 am to 4:20 pm Monday through Friday to arrange transportation.
Schedule health-related trips two weeks ahead of the day of your appointment and schedule non-medical trips one week ahead of the day of your appointment. There is a brief registration that is required for service. Wheelchair van service may be available upon request - please specify when requesting rides.
A suggested contribution is $8 for one way. Contributions are always voluntary. Any amount you wish to give is greatly appreciated and will be used to expand the transportation program.
Even more Community Resources
Our Community Resourcespage has a variety of resources in WNY and beyond.