Aging is one of the most natural things in life. Preparing for growing older and knowing how to age well can be a real life-changer. That was the central theme as more than 150 area residents attended the Tomah Health “Healthy Aging Expo” held at the Cranberry Country Lodge in Tomah Oct. 19.
During the Health Fair, attendees visited 27 health booths, participated in chair yoga with Yoga Leaf, completed various free health screenings, enjoyed complimentary food & refreshments, and took home door prizes.
After the health fair, a six-person health panel presented insights on the 4 M’s of healthy aging, including mobility, mental health, medications, and what matters most. “As we get older and age, it’s important to think about what matters to you and your personal health goals. After you know what’s important, you should communicate that to your family and loved ones. There is no right or wrong answer,” said panel member and Tomah Health registered nurse Linsey Rezin, R.N.
She further explained that the 4 M’s could apply to anyone at any age or life stage, regardless of the situation. “The 4 M’s are all connected, and talking to your provider about your mobility, medication, mental health, and what matters most to you is a step in the right direction, said Rezin. “You are the person who should decide what’s best for your health.”
The event replaced the longtime hospital sponsored, Senior Health and Safety Expo. “I think some had a negative connotation of the word senior,” explained Tomah Health Community health educator Whitney Sanjari. “We wanted to refocus the event and look at ways we can help our community age healthily and positively,” Sanjari said the event is a reflection of the mission of the hospital. “It’s important to have a community presence and bring together all of the organizations that serve our community. The Healthy Aging Expo allows an excellent place for people in our community to learn, have fun, and be social while learning about their health,” added Sanjari.