ST. JOSEPH — Region IV Area Agency on Aging will offer an Aging Mastery Program beginning April 3, at the Cass County Council on Aging, Front Street Crossing in Dowagiac.

This is a 10-week health and wellness program developed by the National Council on Aging.

Organizers said that it is an opportunity for adults to participate in and reap the benefits of this cutting-edge wellness program.

Region IV Area Agency on Aging is a non-profit organization offering comprehensive and coordinated services to assist older persons and other vulnerable adults in maintaining independence in their homes and communities.

The National Council on Aging is a respected national leader and trusted partner to help people aged 60 plus meet the challenges of aging. The mission of the organization is to improve the lives of millions of older adults, especially those who are struggling. Through innovative community programs and services, online help, and advocacy, NCOA is partnering with nonprofit organizations, government, and business to improve the health and economic security of 10 million older adults by 2020.

The goal of the program is to empower adults to make and maintain small but impactful changes. The classes will explore navigating longer lives, physical activity, sleep, healthy eating and hydration, financial fitness, medication management, advanced planning, healthy relationships, falls prevention and community engagement. For each of the classes, organizers will provide basic educational materials developed from highly trusted sources, a checklist of potential next steps and a system for tracking behaviors.

“Even when you think you are perfectly prepared for your later years, the Aging Mastery Program teaches you about ten very important areas in your life that will prepare you to get through it all with gratitude.  Make time for all ten classes now – we have found the benefits to be huge,” said a couple who graduated from the program.

The Aging Mastery Program classes will be host from 1 to 2:30 p.m.  every Tuesday, April 3 to June 5, at the Cass County Council on Aging, Front Street Crossing, 227 S. Front Street, in Dowagiac.

The course fee is $99 for the 10-week class series. Scholarships are available. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required.

For more information or to register for the class, contact Tara Gillette at the Area Agency on Aging at taragillette@areaagencyonaging.org or (269) 408-4369.