Health & Wellness

Elderly lady at an outdoor market buying fruit.

This page lists most of the health and wellness benefits and services provided by Montgomery County Government. The page also contains important resources for the Seniors

On this page

Physical Health benefits

Health Coverage

Prescription Coverage

Behavioral Health benefits

Dental Health benefits

Other benefits

Wellness Programs - Fitness After 50—It’s Never Too Late to Start

There are many reasons why regular exercise and physical activity are important to everyone, including older adults.    Regular physical activity and exercise can produce long-term health benefits and that is one reason health experts recommend that older adults be active every day to maintain their health. Even moderate exercise can improve the health of people who are frail or have diseases that accompany aging.

In a study published in the journal Neurology, doctors found that exercise can slow cognitive decline—meaning our minds can stay sharper longer. Some older adults are reluctant to exercise because they think exercise will be too hard or that physical activity will harm them. Others think they have to join a gym or have special equipment. Often when older adults lose the ability to do things on their own, it isn’t just because they have aged—it’s often because they are not active. Lack of physical activity can lead to more doctor visits, more hospitalizations and the use of more medications.

Exercising regularly can actually help prevent or delay many disease and disabilities. In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for chronic conditions. Studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems or difficulty walking.

Here are some programs that can help you increase your amount of physical activity, get more exercise and help improve the aging process.

Exercise Programs for Seniors

Name Description
Bone Builders

Bone Builders is a free community-based osteoporosis prevention program that combines exercise and education to help older individuals increase their bone density. One in two older women and one in five older men will suffer from a fracture due to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can be caused by heredity and other reasons, including a lack of calcium in the diet, a sedentary lifestyle and certain medications.

There are more than 30 Bone Builders classes at locations throughout the community. Taught by a group of dedicated volunteers, the hour- long classes are held twice weekly. Participants learn and do exercises specifically chosen to increase muscle strength and bone density in order to improve balance and minimize the risk of falls. Participants bring their own weights to class.
Stepping On

Stepping On is a free County-supported fall prevention program led by a trained professional. Participants learn to manage health behaviors to reduce the risk of falls. Call 240-773-8290 for information.

Montgomery County Recreation

Montgomery County Recreation has a wide variety of fitness facilities and activities for people of all ages. There are programs for adults 55+ related to health, fitness and fun in many locations throughout the community.

  • Active Adults 55+ Fitness Classes
  • Senior Shape: Senior Shape is a partnership between Suburban Hospital and Montgomery County Recreation. Located around the county. The classes provide strength, flexibility and aerobic exercise training. Participants must have a doctor’s note. The fee for a three-month class is $40. Call Suburban Hospital at 301-896-3939.

Health and Fitness Programs Sponsored by Hospitals

There are low cost health promotion programs, screening and exercise classes, usually offered in community locations including shopping malls, county recreation and senior centers.

Senior Wellness Programs by Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Takoma Park

  • City of Gaithersburg
    • Serves individuals 55+ who are residents of Gaithersburg or the surrounding areas.
    • 80A Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg 301-258-7380
  • City of Rockville
    • Serves Rockville residents 60+ with a variety of exercise, computer, recreation and education programs. Programs are available in English, Spanish and Chinese.
    • 1150 Carnation Drive, Rockville 301-314-8800
  • City of Takoma Park Recreation Department
    • For persons 55+
    • 7500 Maple Avenue, Takoma Park 301-891-7280