Seniors who attend the Council on Aging's Flint Senior Center on Pleasant Street have had the opportunity to participate in a weekly Healthy Aging education and support group run by health and wellness coach Elizabeth Martins of Work Out World. The program initially ran for six weeks in January, 2009, but was so popular that it resumed in late February. "This has been a very popular group," commented Center Coordinator Susana Ponte. "People really love the chance to learn in a supportive group setting." she added. Sessions cover weight loss, fiber intake, dining out and fast food, and exercise. Participants begin with a body fat analysis and then discuss ways of improving their diet. They also participate in some chair exercises and get to sample some healthy snacks. Participants pay $1 per session. For more information about the program, contact Susana Ponte at 508-324-2712 or Elizabeth Martins at 508-676-5378.
 

(Top row, left) Alda Faria and Isabel Markland enjoy listening to Liz as she makes recommendations for living a healthy lifestyle. (Top row, right) Jeannette Martin and Ezabell Markland sit in front of the body fat analyzer as they listen to Liz. (Middle row) Liz discusses the importance of fiber in the diet and then leads the group, including Robert Rachel, in some simple chair exercises. (Bottom row, center) Center Director Susana Ponte is flanked by Madeline Texceira and Chris Maroney, participants in the first group in January. (Bottom row, right) Liz offers Rita White a fruit smoothie made from frozen strawberries and protein powder.