Falls Prevention Exercise Programs Available At Somerset County-Operated Senior Wellness Centers

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — Brace yourself for the following fact: one out of four adults aged 65 years and older fall every year. Unfortunately, one incident of taking a tumble means the chances of it happening again will double, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Studies show that when older adults regularly participate in evidence-based falls prevention exercise programs, they achieve multiple health benefits and an overall enhanced quality of life, as reported by the National Council on Aging. Health benefits include better mood, reduced pain, greater mobility, and fewer falls.

“In honor of Falls Prevention Awareness Month in September, we want residents to be aware of the number of wonderful evidence-based falls prevention programs that are offered at County senior wellness centers,” said Somerset County Commissioner Paul M. Drake, liaison to the Office on Aging and Disability Services. “Seniors tell us that these exercise programs not only help them improve their overall balance, strength, and flexibility, but are also a great way to socialize and make new friends.”

In September, the County-operated senior wellness centers are offering the following evidence- based (proven health benefits through research) falls prevention programs:

• Chair Yoga – increases bone density and improves strength, flexibility, and balance. This program includes stretching the joints and muscles for mobility.Gentle Aerobics – improves blood circulation, lubricates joints for flexibility, and strengthens individual muscles while helping to decrease the risk for falls.
• Geri-Fit® - is a 45-minute program that includes exercise for chronic disease self-management. Participants practice strength training to rebuild muscle that has been lost through the aging process. The program requires the use of light dumbbells and a stretch band. Participants can perform exercises at their own pace.
• Project Healthy Bones – is a 24-week exercise and education program for people who have osteoporosis or osteopenia. The goal is to reduce the risk of falls and fractures, improve balance and bone strength, and encourage a bone-healthy lifestyle.

County-operated senior wellness centers offer a multitude of falls-prevention programs throughout the year, including:

• Bingocize® - strategically combines the game of bingo, exercise, and/or health education with trained volunteers who lead the class. This is a 10-week workshop, which takes place twice a week for 45 to 60 minutes. Classes may focus on exercise-only, exercise and falls prevention, or exercise and nutrition. The workout portion includes exercises for range of motion, balance, muscle strengthening, and endurance.
• Enhance®Fitness – is a program that focuses on low-impact cardiovascular moves, balance work, strength training, and stretching. Classes meet three times a week for an hour.
• For a complete list of programs, activities, and events happening at the County-operated senior wellness centers, visit https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/government/human-services/aging-disability-services/senior-centers.

Senior Wellness Center Programs Help Residents Age in Place
The six Somerset County-operated Senior Wellness Centers, managed by the Office on Aging and Disability Services (OOADS), help older adults age safely at home by offering programs that support physical, social, and emotional well-being. Exercise and educational classes, social programs, and access to supportive services contribute to a higher quality of life. All county-operated senior centers are open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Somerset County senior wellness centers offer nutritionally balanced lunches, Monday through Friday, for a suggested donation of $2.50 for anyone aged 60 years and older. The cost of lunch for those under 60 is $8.47. The menu selection includes a hot, meat-based, or meatless entrée, or a cold, meat-based, or meatless boxed lunch. Participants should make reservations for lunch by 10 a.m. at least one business day before they plan to attend.

Farmers Market Vouchers Still Available for the 2025 Season
Somerset County seniors aged 60 years and older who meet income eligibility requirements can receive a $40 voucher to use at local farm stands. Participants can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs with these vouchers. Eligible individuals will receive this benefit one time during the 2025 season. The vouchers are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Vouchers are available between May 1 and September 30, 2025, and can be redeemed at participating farmers’ markets until November 30, 2025.

Income guidelines: Single individuals can earn up to a maximum of $28,953 annually, and couples can earn a combined annual income of up to $39,128. Applicants must show proof of identification, residence, and income. For more information about the vouchers, call the Somerset County OOADS at (908) 704-6346 or 1(888) 747-1122.

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About Somerset County
The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.

This press release was produced by the Somerset County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.