February is recognized as Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and the steps we can take to protect our hearts. One of the most effective ways to maintain heart health is through proper nutrition, reinforcing the idea that “food is medicine.” In Central Florida, Seniors First has been at the forefront of ensuring older adults have access to nutritious meals that support overall well-being, especially heart health.
The Link Between Aging and Heart Health
According to the National Institute on Aging, as we grow older, natural changes in the heart and blood vessels increase the risk of heart disease. Poor nutrition can further exacerbate these risks, making a balanced diet crucial in preventing chronic conditions and enhancing quality of life. For seniors, eating heart-healthy foods can make a significant difference in maintaining independence and longevity.
How Seniors First is Making a Difference
For over 52 years, Seniors First has been serving the Central Florida community through its Meals on Wheels program, ensuring older adults receive the nutritious meals they need to stay healthy. Marsha Lorenz, CEO of Seniors First said the organization has provided vital support to more than 900 seniors, delivering over 345,000 meals in 2024—an average of 6,635 meals each week. The program provides two meals each weekday with the number of meals provided per week varying based on individual needs.
Through its nutrition programs, Seniors First plays a vital role in helping seniors access fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and other heart-healthy ingredients.
“Food is medicine, especially for older adults. Through our Meals on Wheels programs, seniors are provided balanced, nutritional meals to support their overall health,” Lorenz said. “The meals focus on providing healthy protein, starches, vegetables, fruits, and dairy. This will be further enhanced by the new refrigerator/freezer unit that will provide fresh produce to seniors in the Orange County routes.”
Expanding Services to Enhance Senior Nutrition
With the addition of a new refrigerator and freezer unit, Seniors First is taking a major step toward enhancing the quality of its meal programs.
“This new addition strengthens our ability to store and provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items, enhancing the quality and variety of meals delivered to seniors,” Lorenz said. “Aligning with the Food is Medicine initiative, this expansion reflects our commitment to helping seniors live healthier, more independent lives. With increased capacity, we can better support the health and well-being of over 900 seniors in Central Florida, expand our Meals on Wheels program, and grow collaborations with local partners—ensuring we deliver even more quality meals in 2025.”
Beyond Meals: Additional Nutrition and Wellness Programs
In addition to Meals on Wheels, Seniors First offers other vital programs to promote senior health. Their Neighborhood Lunch Program provides nutritious meals in welcoming community settings, fostering both social interaction and balanced nutrition. The program runs in 17 locations across Orange County, partnering with the city, county, and local churches to accommodate accessibility needs and transportation. Aside from serving meals, the program offers outlets for more health practices like chair exercise classes, Zumba, and educational presentations on healthy living and nutrition. In addition, guest speakers from the community are also brought in to share meaningful insights on healthy living with seniors.
Additionally, the organization ensures access to nutritious food beyond scheduled meal deliveries through their Community Food Pantry which offers extra food resources to seniors and community members in need, including fresh produce.
Seniors First also provide essential support beyond meal programs.
“Our In-Home Care Services provide essential support for seniors who need assistance with daily activities, allowing them to maintain their independence while receiving personalized care in the comfort of their homes,” Lorenz said.
The Importance of Heart-Healthy Habits for Seniors
A nutritious diet is just one component of maintaining a healthy heart. Seniors First encourages older adults to take a proactive approach to heart health by incorporating healthy habits into their daily routines.
“Prioritizing heart health is key to maintaining independence and well-being as we age,” Lorenz said. “Small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference in living a longer, healthier life.”
Lorenz recommends the following tips for seniors, and the general public, to follow when working on their heart health:
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while limiting saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium
- Regular physical activity, routine health check-ups, and maintaining a healthy weight all play a vital role in preventing heart disease
- Additionally, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress through relaxation techniques can further support cardiovascular health
This February, Heart Health Month serves as a reminder that nutrition plays a crucial role in cardiovascular well-being. Through its Meals on Wheels program and other essential services, Seniors First continues to support older adults in Central Florida by ensuring they have access to nutritious meals that serve as medicine for the body. By prioritizing heart-healthy foods and promoting overall wellness, Seniors First empowers seniors to lead healthier, more independent lives.