Chatham Daily News – Keeping seniors healthy, safe and active
By
Posted on November 20, 2012
Three more sessions are planned in Chatham-Kent this fall for the Seniors on the Move program, sponsored by New Horizons for Seniors and VHA Home Health Care.
The group has already been to senior centres in Wheatley, Blenheim, Ridgetown, Bothwell and Walpole Island providing information on how people can reduce their risks of falls.
“We hope to be in more rural communities in Chatham-Kent early next year,” said Lynne Hanemaayer, Seniors on the Move coordinator. “We are trying to reach as many as possible and hope to provide the information to those who may be isolated and would not normally know what is available. Rides are available if required.”
She said occupational therapists are on hand to provide simple core exercises, giving tips and information on preventing falls.
Haneymaayer said representatives of the Canadian Institute for the Blind are available to talk about what steps to take to help reduce falls for those with sight impairment.
She said the Canadian Hearing Society also provides information on how important good hearing is when it comes to avoiding falls. Helpful products will be on display for the hearing impaired.
“We have our registered nurse who is the only continence nurse in all of Chatham-Kent and Sarnia providing a session on incontinence and avoiding falls by not rushing to the washroom.” she said.
The next session will take place Friday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Wallaceburg Adult Club on James Street. Free snacks and door prizes will be available.
A session at the Chatham Active Lifestyle Centre is scheduled for Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Free lunch and door prizes will be available.
The third event will take place Dec. 5 at the Tilbury Leisure Centre from 1-2 p.m. Free snacks and door prizes will be provided.
Hanemaayer said any group wanting a free presentation should call her at 519-351-3569.
“We ask anyone who is interested to get in touch with their local seniors’ citizen centre or call Seniors on the Move,” she said.
bob.boughner@sunmedia.ca.
