March is Embrace Aging Month at the University of B.C.’s Okanagan campus.
The Institute for Healthy Living and Chronic Disease Prevention, along with the faculty of health and social development and the Interior Health Authority have teamed up to present a number of events that may help with the transition from middle age to senior citizen.
“Aging populations are at risk of chronic illness and poor well-being, and consequently fostering health and wellness have become critically important in today’s communities,” said Joan Bottorff, IHLCDP director.
“There are many ways to support older adults so they can enjoy healthier lives in a variety of settings and circumstances, and we want everyone to know about them.”
This is the second annual Okanagan Embrace Aging month and Bottorff says organizers have lined up a variety of public events.
“You will hear from some of our UBC faculty and students, and from experts at Interior Health and in the community,” said Bottorff.
“The sessions are for everyone — young and old alike, and focus on a variety of topics related to healthy aging and ways to enhance quality of life among seniors.”
All sessions are free to the public, but registration is required.
n Reducing medication in the frail elderly takes place Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m.
Join Trevor Janz, regional residential care medical director, Interior Health as he talks about seniors’ medication. It takes place at the RHS 129, Reichwald Health Sciences Centre at UBC Okanagan. Register at reducingmedication.eventbrite.ca.
n Keep seniors singing takes place Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m.
Nigel Brown, Sing for Your Life Foundation executive director, will discuss why singing and music is important.
This takes place at Kelowna’s Parkinson Recreation Centre. Register at: sing4yourlife.eventbrite.ca
n Cancer prevention and you runs Friday between noon and 1 p.m.
Representatives from the Canadian Cancer Society will provide tips that may help prevent onset of this serious disease.
This takes place at Kelowna’s Rotary Centre for the Arts, 421 Cawston Ave., with registration at reducecancer.eventbrite.ca.
