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Health Fair focuses on needs of senior citizens |
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Wednesday, 21 October 2009 |
By Davida Hill-Beckum
Daily Times Leader
Too often senior citizens go without the medical care they need. A West Point Community Living Center is hosting an event in an effort to change that.
All senior citizens are invited to participate in the first Health Fair held exclusively for them. WPCLC in conjunction with Community Hospice, Mississippi Home Care and Pioneer Behavioral Health, will host “Don't Let Health Care Scare You,” Oct. 23.
“Senior health care is really becoming scary,” said Carol Hilt, admissions coordinator for WPCLC. “Seniors are going to the doctor because they are afraid they will 'use up' their benefits. They are staying home and becoming sicker and sicker. Something that could have been treated with a prescription then warrants a hospital stay. In this economy seniors are more concerned about receiving a hospital bill then staying healthy.”
Although senior health care is a serious issue, the staff says they will have a good time during the event.
The health fair will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Sunny 93.3 will broadcast live during the event.
“We really want this to be a success,” said Tammy Martin, administrator of WPCLC. “Our goal is for this health fair to become an annual event.”
Free blood sugar testing, cholesterol testing, blood pressure screening, diabetic foot screening and vision screening will be available.
“We wanted to make sure we offered testing for the diseases and ailments senior citizens suffer from most often,” said Hilt, who also works at the facility as a registered nurse.
Martin is excited about the event providing the opportunity for WPCLC to serve the community as well as the residents.
“This health fair will give a chance to put our mission of 'reconnecting people to life thru individuals serving individuals,”' Martin said. “I am so excited about the opportunity to put our mission into action beyond the walls of the center.”
“We are going to serve free lunch to everyone who comes out,” said Martin, “and just have a really good time playing bingo and doing some other things.”
Osie Rambus, the dietary manager, is looking forward to feeding a crowd Friday.
“I hope we have a large turnout,” Rambus said. “The menu is prepared. We are having hamburgers, hot dogs and all of the trimmings.”
The 90 residents of WPCLC can receive screenings as well, if needed.
“Some are wanting to be screened,” Martin said. “Some have volunteered to help with the different events.
No registration is required for the fair. Anyone over the age of 60 may attend.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 23 October 2009 )
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