Healthy Aging Conference addresses concerns for older generation

Activity, independence and good health don't have to stop as one ages. In fact, retirement years really can be the best time of one's life - the golden age.

Persons who participate in the regional Healthy Aging Conference, set for Thursday, May 15, at the Victoria Community Center (2905 E. North Street) in Victoria, will experience this truth firsthand.

Participants may select three of nine concurrent sessions which include the following topics: "Alzheimer's and Dementia," "Put Your Best Foot Forward," "Exercising with Arthritis," "Ask the Doctor," "Consumer Fraud," "Safe Driving," "Spice Up Your Diet with Herbs," "Diabetes" and "Sleep Disorders."

County Extension Agent Dianne Gertson and former County Extension Agent Marilyn Sebesta will be presenting the workshop on adding flavor to foods with herbs. They will discuss taste and aging, the difference between herbs and spices and use and storage of herbs and spices. They will also prepare spice and herb blends for the participants to taste.

Exhibits, door prizes, refreshments, lunch and health screenings - including bone density, blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol - will also be part of the day's activities. An added feature at this year's conference will be a free evaluation of medication interac- tions. Participants are asked to bring a list (not bottles) of both prescribed and over-the-counter medicines.

Registration and viewing of exhibits will begin at 8:30 a.m., with the opening at 9:50 a.m. and the conclusion at 2 p.m. The cost of the conference is $2 per person; however, the first 12 to register from Wharton County will receive a free pass as well as free transportation, provided by the Area Agency on Aging.

Persons who would like to take advantage of this special deal are asked to go to the Wharton County Extension Office (210 S. Rusk Street in Wharton), to register and make a $5 deposit. This deposit will be returned when the participants board the vans to go to the conference. The deadline for registration is May 13.

This conference is sponsored by Citizens Medical Center, Golden Crescent Area Agency on Aging and Texas AgriLife Extension Service. It is open to persons of all ages, regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin.

Efforts will be made to provide reasonable accommodation for all persons with disabilities. They are asked to contact Cindy Cornish at 361-578-1587 as soon as possible to advise of the auxiliary aid or service required.

For questions or additional information, please call the Wharton County Extension office at 532-3310.