With the splendor of our favorite holidays winding down, Pennsylvania's senior population will be searching for ways to keep warm but still active through the cold winter months.

Great opportunities to maintain a good quality of life are offered in all senior centers. Programs focus on providing information and resources helpful to mature men and women. Their goals are to keep seniors motivated, healthy and independent.

Since 1972, LifeSpan has been assisting those over 60 through education, support and advocacy. Local centers plan a variety of activities including:

n Dormont - Painting, bridge, quilting, exercise, bingo and 11:30 a.m. lunch. 412-343-6050.

n Bridgeville - Horseshoes, line dancing, bowling, cards, bingo, ongoing flea market and 11:30 a.m. lunch. 412-221-1566.

"I've been coming to the Bridgeville center for 20 years and I hope to meet my friends here for at least another 10," said Bernard Wagenhofer. "I met my friend Jim here years ago, soon after the senior program started. We enjoy the program and fellowship for a few hours each day."

"I'm the cheerleader for the horseshoe competition every Monday," said Pearl Miles. "We have lots of fun and I wouldn't miss it."

Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging and its service providers plan to help mature adults put their best foot forward into the new year.

By offering healthy aging strategies to its growing senior population, the department plans to host the award-winning program, Healthy Steps for Older Adults.

Boasting national honors, Healthy Steps is designed to provide insight into making homes safer. Geared to prevent fall-related injuries, participation raises awareness of movements that can lead to falls causing serious medical problems.

LifeSpan Community Resource Centers plan to host the one-day program in March and April at several locations. Sessions are held 10 to 11:30 a.m., lunch break and continuing from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Reservations will be accepted beginning Feb. 2.

Part 1's focus will be on fall prevention, guidelines for medicine safety and home repairs.

Part 2 will focus on balance, walking, foot care and foot wear along with warm ups for limber muscles and joints.

Applications are available at LifeSpan centers.

Mature Pennsylvanians should make a positive effort in the new year to take advantage of the fellowship and essential resources offered at conveniently-located senior centers. Programs strive to serve older adults in ways beneficial to enriching their lives and maintaining dignity.