Looking to stay healthy this fall? These free classes might be just what you need
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Feeling the need to move more, manage a health concern, or simply reconnect with others this fall?
If you’re a senior in this county, there’s a wide range of free and low-cost wellness programs available just for you.
From fitness and fall prevention to diabetes support and balance training, these classes are designed with older adults in mind.
Whether you want to build strength, feel steadier on your feet, or learn practical health tips, there’s something for every level and interest.
Here’s what’s being offered this season—and how to sign up while space is still available.
Staying healthy in our later years goes far beyond prescription refills.
Participating in group wellness programs has been shown to improve physical health, emotional well-being, and even confidence.
Seniors who attend regularly often experience more independence, fewer falls, and stronger social connections.
These classes offer a space to learn, move, and meet others—while having a bit of fun along the way.
Here’s a closer look at four wellness programs hosted by the York County Area Agency on Aging:
If you or someone you care about has diabetes or pre-diabetes, this class offers practical strategies for staying on top of your health.
It covers nutrition, exercise, medication, emotional well-being, and daily challenges that come with chronic illness.
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults—but many can be prevented.
This class focuses on improving balance, building strength, and developing the confidence to stay active without fear.
This fall prevention program teaches you how to recognize hazards at home, practice balance exercises, and connect with others focused on safety and independence.
Perfect for all fitness levels, this exercise-based program includes low- to moderate-intensity movements that build strength, flexibility, and stability.
Sessions also include short lessons on the health benefits of each activity.
To register, just call the number listed for each class.
Spots may fill quickly, so it’s best to reserve yours early.
Most classes are free or have a small fee, and all are tailored for senior comfort and ability.
Wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and let the instructor know about any health concerns before you begin.
Read next: Seniors, beware—your online safety could be at risk if you ignore this critical advice
Have you taken a class through the York County Area Agency on Aging before? Are you thinking about joining one this fall? We’d love to hear your experience or questions—drop a comment and help inspire others to stay active, safe, and connected!
If you’re a senior in this county, there’s a wide range of free and low-cost wellness programs available just for you.
From fitness and fall prevention to diabetes support and balance training, these classes are designed with older adults in mind.
Whether you want to build strength, feel steadier on your feet, or learn practical health tips, there’s something for every level and interest.
Here’s what’s being offered this season—and how to sign up while space is still available.
Health and wellness programs like these help seniors stay active, confident, and independent. Image Source: YouTube / Institute for Health and Productivity Studies. JHU.
Why wellness classes matter as we age
Staying healthy in our later years goes far beyond prescription refills.
Participating in group wellness programs has been shown to improve physical health, emotional well-being, and even confidence.
Seniors who attend regularly often experience more independence, fewer falls, and stronger social connections.
These classes offer a space to learn, move, and meet others—while having a bit of fun along the way.
Also read: Unlock the secrets to online safety: Free tech classes for seniors reveal essential digital skills
What’s available this fall in York County
Here’s a closer look at four wellness programs hosted by the York County Area Agency on Aging:
1. Diabetes Self-Management Program
If you or someone you care about has diabetes or pre-diabetes, this class offers practical strategies for staying on top of your health.
It covers nutrition, exercise, medication, emotional well-being, and daily challenges that come with chronic illness.
- When & Where: Mondays and Wednesdays, 12:30–3 p.m., Nov. 10–Dec. 15
Springettsbury Township Buildings, 1501 Mount Zion Road - To Register: Call 717-855-0437
Also read: Unlock the secrets of the digital world: How Denver’s surprising new program is empowering adults 60+ with apps and AI skills
2. A Matter of Balance
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults—but many can be prevented.
This class focuses on improving balance, building strength, and developing the confidence to stay active without fear.
- Session 1: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1–3 p.m., Oct. 7–30
York Township Park Building, 25 Oak St. - Session 2: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m.–noon, Oct. 20–Nov. 12
Springettsbury Township Building - To Register: Call 717-855-0479
3. Healthy Steps for Older Adults
This fall prevention program teaches you how to recognize hazards at home, practice balance exercises, and connect with others focused on safety and independence.
- Session 1: Fridays, 9–11 a.m., Oct. 3 & 10
Susquehanna Senior Center, 2427 Craley Road, Wrightsville - Session 2: Tuesdays, 10 a.m.–noon, Oct. 7 & 14
Visiting Nurse Association, 440 Madison St., Hanover - To Register: Call 717-855-0479
4. Healthy Steps in Motion
Perfect for all fitness levels, this exercise-based program includes low- to moderate-intensity movements that build strength, flexibility, and stability.
Sessions also include short lessons on the health benefits of each activity.
- Session 1: Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–noon, Sept. 8–Oct. 1
Springettsbury Township Building - Session 2: Mondays and Wednesdays, 1–2 p.m., Oct. 6–Nov. 3
York Township Park Building - To Register: Call 717-855-0479
Also read: Don’t miss Senior Fest 2025—these hidden perks could be just what you need
What makes these classes different?
- Evidence-based: These programs are backed by research and proven to support healthy aging.
- Led by trained professionals: Instructors understand the needs of older adults and make classes welcoming and safe.
- Supportive community: Meet others who share your goals and encourage one another along the way.
- Convenient locations: Sessions are offered at various community sites across York County.
Also read: Retired? Here’s how to go back to college—without breaking the bank
Tips for getting the most out of your class
- Bring a friend: Attending with someone can help you stay motivated and make it more enjoyable.
- Set a goal: Whether it’s attending every session or walking more confidently, having a goal keeps you focused.
- Speak up: Instructors are happy to answer questions or adapt exercises as needed.
- Celebrate progress: Every improvement counts—be proud of each step you take.
Also read: Five free or low-cost retirement perks you may be overlooking
How to sign up and what to expect
To register, just call the number listed for each class.
Spots may fill quickly, so it’s best to reserve yours early.
Most classes are free or have a small fee, and all are tailored for senior comfort and ability.
Wear comfortable clothes, bring a water bottle, and let the instructor know about any health concerns before you begin.
Read next: Seniors, beware—your online safety could be at risk if you ignore this critical advice
Have you taken a class through the York County Area Agency on Aging before? Are you thinking about joining one this fall? We’d love to hear your experience or questions—drop a comment and help inspire others to stay active, safe, and connected!
