Staying on top of your health doesn’t have to mean visiting a doctor’s office – it can actually be fun and engaging. On Thursday, April 19, Richfield Living partnered with Jefferson College of Health Sciences (JCHS) to host the Sixth Annual Health & Wellness Day at the Alleghany Room in The Oaks.
JCHS students and employees worked with approximately 80 guests at various wellness stations. They included: strength and flexibility, fall prevention and home safety, blood sugar testing and diabetes information, medication review and safety, brain fitness, blood pressure and stroke risk assessment.
“It’s much easier to prevent a problem than to try to chase a treatment after a problem presents itself,” Samantha Stepp, a nursing student, said. “Wellness is key in the quality of one’s life, and as we age, it’s important to be aware of our bodies and how they are functioning. Keeping ourselves educated and being intentional about making healthy choices are the steps we can take to stave off common chronic conditions and disease as we age.”
Kristen Woodford, another JCHS nursing student, said she had a great time working with the seniors. “They were all so nice and easy to work with,” she said.
As President of Richfield Living, George Childs is responsible for the care and welfare of over 600 residents and approximately 470 team members.
“Events like this help groom our future health leaders and caregivers. Students get great hands-on experience in building rapport with patients, practice with medical procedures and the sharing of knowledge,” he said. “Over the years, we continue to refine the wellness stations that are offered, so we are providing information and services that are of interest and relevant to the greater community. This year, a station focused on sleep and relaxation techniques was added.”
Assistant Professor of Nursing Nannette Borling believes that staying on top of your health is of the utmost importance, especially for seniors. “I made sure to answer all of the questions that I was asked,” she said. “Everyone was excited, engaged and motivated to learn more about their health.”
The primary goal of last Thursday’s event was to “increase general health awareness overall,” according to President George Childs.
“This year was my first opportunity to visit each station and talk with the students. I found all the students to be well versed and eager to share with our residents,” he said. “This event creates synergy with Richfield Living and Jefferson College of Health Sciences, and provides an essential and helpful service to the greater community.”