August 15, 2007
Balassa Nicolai strolls the boardwalk with Diabetes Educator Lisa Garneau.
Bethel Celebrates Senior Health and Fitness Day
by Annette Coyle, RD LD, Clinical Diabetes Educator
On June 29th Bethel celebrated the annual Senior Health and Fitness Day at the log cabin and Pinky’s Park.
Bethel’s seniors joined over 150,000 older Americans in celebrating Senior Health and Fitness Day in more than 1,000 locations around the United States, working toward the common goal of keeping older Americans healthy and fit.
Under the direction of Outreach Coordinator Kim Jung and with the help of the diabetes prevention and control team, 37 seniors participated in activities including walking, stretching, chair exercises, marching in place and more.
Information was available on a variety topics including home care, injury prevention, eye and dental care and diabetes. Glucose and blood pressure screenings were offered. Participants enjoyed receiving a variety of door prizes—t-shirts, sunglasses, mugs, and tape measures. Each participant received a visor and a certificate of participation.
After the event, Kim Jung spoke with two of the participants—Vang Ramp and Elias Venes. Vang Ramp, 72 years young, offered this advice to others: “Keep mentally, spiritually, and physically active whenever possible. There is always something to do. Think positive and have humor. Read books and walk.” She believes that volunteering is the key to living a healthy life, stating that helping others makes you feel good and people appreciate any help you can offer. Vang walks three miles on most days wearing the sunglasses she won at the senior event!
Long time Bethel resident Elias Venes, 79 years young, has participated in each of the annual senior fitness days and believes that “you can do anything you want if you believe you can.” He never lets the stiffness or pain of arthritis keep him from moving, saying that it is important to “break a sweat” during any activity.
He says that being active helps him sleep better and feel better. Like Vang, Elias feels good about helping others. Doing things for others keeps him active and gives him something to do. Elias picks berries, packs water, and moves his body in some way every day.
We encourage all seniors to be active every day like Vang and Elias. However, before starting any new exercise or activity program, please see your health care provider.
We would like to thank Swanson’s, A. C., and Corina’s for their generous contributions to the healthy snack table. We would also like to thank all of the seniors who participated and helped make this an event to remember.
Family Health and Fitness Day will be celebrated in September. This is a fun event for all ages. Stay tuned for more information.
Call Diabetes Prevention & Control: 07-543-6133 or -800-478-3321 ext. 6133