POINT PLEASANT — To maintain a healthy lifestyle and longer lifespan, senior citizens need to stay active.

The Pleasant Valley Hospital Wellness Center has recognized the importance of keeping the community’s older population active. The wellness center recently partnered with the nationally recognized Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program.

According to a news release issued by PVH, SilverSneakers is the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults and may be available at no additional cost (beyond any monthly premium) to eligible Medicare health plan and group retiree members. Through the program, the wellness center is now able to offer older adults a way to increase their levels of physical activity while motivating them to remain active.

“There are significant health benefits of regular exercise for older adults,” Debra Long, director of rehabilitation services, said in a news release. “In addition to helping our members stay physically healthy, SilverSneakers also offers a great way for them to socialize. The Pleasant Valley Wellness Center gives seniors the opportunity to meet new friends and have fun.”

With the SilverSneakers premier network, members have a complimentary membership with access to a variety of participating locations throughout the country. Many sites offer amenities, including fitness equipment, treadmills, free weights and the signature SilverSneakers Fitness Program classes, which are designed specifically for older adults and taught by certified instructors.

In West Virginia, the program is available at no additional cost to select Medicare plans of Humana, Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield and Highmark.

“Our staff welcomes members of the SilverSneakers program. We can offer members one on one instruction, provide tours of the facility and extend a helping hand to those who are just starting an exercise program,” Darin Smith, wellness center manager, said in a news release.

For more information on the SilverSneakers program, call the wellness center at 304-675-7222 or call 888-423-4632. Information also is available on the Web site, www.silversneakers.com.