Aging Services expands education and support to protect aging adults.
Hillsborough County Aging Services, in partnership with the National Council on Aging (NCOA), recently hosted a community event to share one important message: caring for your bone health is an essential part of staying active, healthy, and independent.
The event, part of a three-part Better Bone Series, welcomed adults age 50 and older to learn how preventive care, nutrition, and regular physical activity contribute to lifelong bone strength. Attendees who registered also received free onsite bone density screenings, an easy, painless way to identify low bone density before it leads to fractures or mobility challenges.
Why bone health matters
Maintaining strong bones is key to continuing the activities you enjoy. Health experts emphasize the importance of bone screening. “Early detection of low bone density can help prevent fractures, falls and long-term mobility issues,” said Sharon Gray, CEO and founder of Homeland Wellness. “Many people don’t realize osteoporosis develops silently, which is why awareness and screenings are critical.”
Early education and screening help residents take proactive steps to protect their health. Through simple screenings, health professionals can identify risk factors early and guide residents toward resources that support long-term mobility and independence.
In addition to screenings, participants learned about Aging Services programs that support bone health year-round, including:
- Senior meal services, nutrition education, and healthy recipe resources
- Fitness opportunities such as line dancing, stretching, and wellness classes
- Access to health professionals and preventive health tools
Stayactive
Hillsborough County Aging Services and NCOA invite adults age 50+ to join Aging Services on Aug. 12 for the next Better Bone Series event. The program offers bone health education, resources, and guidance to help older adults stay strong, informed, and independent.
Participants are encouraged to arrive early and register in advance to secure a screening slot. A limited number of onsite bone screenings will be available.
Visit HCFL.gov/Aging to learn more.