"One of our comprehensive programs that we offer for the seniors is a health maintenance program which involves focus on physical fitness,” said Merlita Compton.

Compton and her staff know the importance of the exercise program.

"Seniors come in and enjoy exercise and starts with flexibility exercise, balancing, cardio including dancing,” she said.  "Exercise that you see now is helping them prevent falls and also keeping them living independently in their own home."

This is only one of the health maintenance programs at KKV. 

There are self-improvement classes, hands-on activities and health education classes.

"Topics like managing diabetes or chronic disease that they may have and many others.  And socializing also, they come and enjoy eating with each other, eating meals provided by Lanakila meals on wheels,” she said.

She hit on a vital side-benefit of the exercise class and the other activities - socializing. 

Study after study proves that the longer seniors can take part in these kinds of programs, the better their quality of life.

"KKV is the only health center that provides a full array of health services - along with medical, dental, behavioral, and many other social services including our elderly program,” she said.

But it's a two way street, according to Compton. 

The staff enjoys providing the services for the seniors.  "Very much so.  It is very satisfying to see them.  We see them first hand, we see their faces smile every day.  It's priceless."