Medical experts from Westchester and Rockland counties will discuss how to prevent osteoporosis and falls and give the latest information on osteoporosis treatment at the annual free Community Health Forum on Nov. 16 at the YWCA of White Plains and Central Westchester, 515 North St., White Plains.
The program will take place from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and the deadline for reservations is Nov. 8. To sign up contact Antonella Caggiano at (914) 813-6380 or or send a fax to (914) 813-6399. For more information, call Patty Szeliga at (914) 813-6432.
The theme for this year’s event is “Steady and Healthy on Your Feet: Preventing Osteoporosis and Falls” A Community Health Forum and it is being presented by the Health and Wellness Coalition and the Caregiver Coalition of Westchester County’s Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS).
The keynote speaker will be Dr. Jeri Nieves, PhD., an associate professor of clinical epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University and director of bone density testing at Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw. Nieves is also a principal investigator for the New York State Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program and an expert on the role of Vitamin D in fall and fracture prevention.
Other speakers will be Michelle Mosner, RD, CDN, project coordinator of the state’s Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program; Grace Kulinski, PT, director of physical therapy at Lawrence Hospital Center in Bronxville, and Bridget Gallagher, GNP, MSN, senior vice president for community services at Jewish Home Lifecare.
Seniors can also watch and take part in an exercise demonstration. A light breakfast will be served.
“No senior should miss this important event,” said DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter. “When seniors take care of their health they can often remain independent for many more years. The combination of good nutrition and appropriate exercise enable seniors to be active in their communities and have an overall better quality of life.”
Ann Darcy, a registered dietitian and coordinator of DSPS’ Nutrition, Health and Wellness Unit, will introduce the speakers.
Program sponsors are the New York State Osteoporosis Prevention and Education Program, the Jewish Home Lifecare/Sarah Neuman Center, Lawrence Hospital Center, the YWCA of White Plains and Central Westchester, the WESTMED Medical Group and Philips Lifeline.