Hundreds of older adults gathered at the Senior Health and Wellness Expo in Flushing’s Sheraton Laguardia East Hotel to explore the various services and resources available to them. This annual event, hosted by VillageCareMAX in partnership with Schneps Media, featured over a dozen organizations offering everything from physical therapy to transportation services. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with representatives, ask questions, and gather valuable information.
Shaun Ruskin, the Chief Operating Officer at VillageCare, emphasized the importance of community outreach in providing access to care for older adults. With advancements in technology, health plans like VillageCareMAX are now utilizing texting as a means to reach seniors and inform them about available services. Assembly Member Ron Kim also stressed the significance of educating older adults about their healthcare options, including long-term care.
One of the innovative programs highlighted at the expo was Ozanam Hall’s Montessori program, designed for residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s. This unique approach aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with memory impairments by incorporating childlike elements into their care. Additionally, NYSARC Trust Services introduced a pooled income trust to help seniors qualify for Medicaid while safeguarding their finances.
Participants at the expo had the opportunity to learn about pre-planning funeral options, accessible transportation services, expanded physical therapy offerings, and diabetes management support groups. Novo Dialysis, a physician-owned provider, shared their focus on patient education to improve the quality of life for individuals requiring dialysis treatment.
As the event drew to a close, a panel discussion involving key stakeholders in the senior health industry provided further insights into the importance of proactive healthcare planning. The emphasis was on educating older adults about their needs before they arise, to prevent instances of vulnerability and exploitation.
Overall, the Senior Health and Wellness Expo served as a valuable platform for older adults to access information, engage with healthcare providers, and explore innovative programs aimed at enhancing their well-being. By bringing together a diverse range of resources under one roof, the event underscored the importance of proactive and holistic approaches to senior health and wellness.
