It’s a fact that aging takes its toll, but we can slow that down if we exercise -- no matter how old we are. 

These seniors take part in a fitness program at Castle Medical Center three times a week. 

Their trainer this morning is Cindy Carvalho.

"I totally enjoy working with this special population.  They really appreciate what they get from exercise and it is very beneficial for their health,” said Carvalho.

We talked with Cindy about why it's important to keep active as we get older.

"As a person ages, various changes occur in systems in our body that definitely affect not only balance and strength, but also our flexibility.  And as that happens, people may find that there's an increase in risk for falls and also a decrease in independence,” said Carvalho.

You heard Cindy mention "falls."  Falls are the single most common reason for seniors to end up hospitalized.

"A lot of times, people's strength will decrease which definitely has an negative effect on our balance.  So we focus on strengthening exercises and also working on some flexibility to improve that,” said Carvalho.

Cindy also encourages the seniors to exercise at home.  How do the seniors feel about the program?

"It helps me get well,” said Roger Weignberg.  “About 4 years ago, I went to the emergency room for trouble breathing.  I had COPD.  Almost died.  The diagnosis was, never get out of the hospital, then never get out of the care home and then I finally got out, and these people are helping me get better."

"And I've improved so greatly.  I was walking around at Castle pushing the wheelchairs and I strengthen my legs and my body, lost weight, met a lot of wonderful friends,” said Millie Chang.