Senior Friendship Centers (SFC) Responds to Rising Needs of Older Adults: Free Vaccines, Medicare Help, and Budget/Scam Protection Workshops
With senior poverty now the highest of any age group and fraud losses at record levels, SFC combats ageism with real solutions to ensure older adults don’t face health, financial, or social risks alone.
[Sarasota, FL, October 1, 2025] – Senior Friendship Centers empowers older adults with free and low-cost opportunities, including vaccines, Medicare counseling, and budget/scam-prevention workshops.
U.S. Census Bureau’s annual data shows the poverty rate for adults over 65 rose to 15%, the highest of any age group. Fraud loss also hit a record 12.5 billion in 2024, and medical expenses alone pushed 7.5 million people into poverty, both disproportionately affecting seniors.
“Too often, ageism hides the truth of what older adults are facing—rising costs, health risks, and scams that target them daily,” said Erin McLeod, President & CEO of Senior Friendship Centers. “Our response is clear: meet people where they are, protect their health, and strengthen their financial footing. Aging with dignity means giving people tools to thrive and filling the gaps when other safety nets fall short.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines ageism as the unfair treatment of people based on their age. It reports that one in every two people holds ageist attitudes, fueling poorer health, reduced financial security, and billions in unnecessary health costs. In Southwest Florida, where nearly one-third of the population is seniors, SFC responds with public events to turn awareness into action.
Free/Low-Cost Events | Open to the Public
- Budgeting & Scam Prevention Workshop – Tuesdays, October 7, 14, 21 & 28 | 10-11 AM | 2350 Scenic Drive | A four-week, instructor-led class on managing fixed budgets, accessing benefits, and identifying scams
- Ageism Awareness Day Presentation with SFC President/CEO Erin McLeod and Sarasota County Aging System Coordinator Sue Berger – October 9 | 9 -10 AM | 2350 Scenic Drive, Venice
- Explore the roots and impact of ageism and foster dialogue that redefines how we value age
- Flu & RSV Vaccine Clinic – October 9 | 10 AM – 2 PM | 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
- Medicare Answers with 2026 Updates with Scott Black
- October 9 | 12-1 PM | 1820 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
- October 10 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | 2350 Scenic Drive, Venice
- BeWell! Health Lecture Series with Dr. Derrick DeSilva |Navigating Personal Wellness within the “Healthcare” System | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | 1888 Brother Geenen Way Sarasota
- October 14 | Sleep and Mindfulness
- November 4 | Nutrition and Supplementation
For more information about Senior Friendship Centers programs or upcoming events, call (941) 955-2122 or visit friendshipcenters.org/special-events/
For media inquiries, please contact [email protected] or [email protected]
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About Senior Friendship Centers: The mission of Senior Friendship Centers is to build vibrant communities by advancing wellness, connection, and enrichment throughout the journey of aging. Since 1973 this organization has served people 50 and older in Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, and Lee Counties with programs and services including activity centers, lifelong learning, dining centers and meals delivered to the homebound, caregiver support, adult day services, supportive aging services, and volunteer opportunities. For more information about Senior Friendship Centers, call (941) 955-2122 or visit www.friendshipcenters.org
