Senior health fair offers advice, tips
Vendors lined the walls of the A.W. Todd Center Oct. 26 and handed out candy, giveaways and information regarding their services to the senior citizen communities of Franklin and surrounding counties. The Senior Health Fair was again hosted by the Franklin County Extension Office from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with lunch provided.
“It’s always an excellent turnout, and we’re happy to keep the senior community informed on education topics they need to promote lifelong learning,” Extension director Katernia Cole Coffey said.
One of the vendors was Kindred at Home, a home health care service, represented by Jenny Pace. Kindred gave out special pins for veterans or those with loved ones who are veterans, along with candy and informational brochures on the services they provide.
“It’s a good outreach to the seniors and a good way of getting our name out there to them,” Pace said.
Country Cottage, an assisted living facility in Russellville, was also present, with Regina Lawler as the representative. “I really enjoy getting to do this. It’s a great social way of letting the seniors know what is out there for them,” Lawler said.
Other booths shared information about other services like Social Security, medical services and banking.
Coffey lined up several speakers for the event. Fire marshal Justin Green kicked off the speakers by welcoming everyone to the event and leading the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Sylvester White from the Florence Social Security Administration addressed the group on a variety of matters, including Social Security and protecting one’s information.
“You have to be conscientious when it comes to scams and protecting your information,” he said.
Information like that is one thing Gary Stanford said is important to the senior community.
“I know personally that it’s something people need to know about because I need to know it, and I think that’s one reason there’s such a good turnout today,” Stanford said.
“I love all of the vendors and speakers. It’s good information,” attendee Delores Downton agreed.
Kathy Jo Spears with the Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments spoke about the new Medicare cards coming out, the Alabama Cares Program and how new clients must call the Aging and Disability Resource Center to sign up, among other topics.
CB&S Bank told seniors about their Shining Stars program for adults 50 years and older. The program has organized local and nonlocal outings for the senior community for 11 years now, according to Cornelia Dean.
“It keeps them out and active, and I enjoy seeing them enjoy the activities,” Dean said.
Entertainment was provided by Buford Parker.
