People who study the aging process are learning how much an active lifestyle and positive attitude can do to prevent some of the common problems of aging.

“Staying Healthy After Fifty” is a new course sponsored by the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross. A series of 1O classes beginning Oct. 9 will focus on many of the common health concerns facing the growing age 50 and over population. The course was developed in cooperation with the American Association of Retired Persons.

The course, taught by Red Cross-trained instructors, also covers topics such as diet and nutrition, exercise, health care consumer planning tips and emergency situations.

Recent statistics indicate that the over-65 age group now constitutes 11 percent of the total U.S. population. That figure is expected to almost double by the year 2O30.

Participants will take part in small group discussions, role playing, group exercises, and question and answer sessions. Guest speakers and informative audio-visual materials will be used to present information participants need to maintain healthy, active lifestyles.

The course is divided into 1O two-hour sessions. The first five sessions begin from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at Eastern Maine Medical Center. The second five sessions will be held at St. Joseph Hospital.

Class size is limited to 20 participants, and preregistration is required. For more information about the course, contact the American Red Cross at 941-2903.