Nearly 60 seniors at Thursday’s eighth annual Senior Information Day were encouraged to combine social engagement and physical activity to promote better health.
The event, held at the Shawano Civic Center, was a combined effort of the Aging Unit of the Shawano County Department of Social Services and Shawano Community Education.
“We had a great turnout today,” said Holly Konitzer, social worker with the Aging Unit of Shawano County. “There was so much they have learned today.”
Four presenters discussed the benefits of staying active, focusing on using exercise to relieve pain associated with arthritis and osteoporosis.
Matty Mathison, representing Shawano Pathways, led off the day’s events by unveiling of a bicycle-car hybrid, called ELF, which is a self-propelled vehicle that has three wheels, pedals and an enclosed cab.
ELF is run on a rechargeable battery; the engine is primarily used to assist with hills and valleys.
Mathison shared her experience in bouncing back from knee replacement surgery, and told participants they can have similar success.
“It took a little bit of effort to get moving, but little by little, I got there,” Mathison said.
She pointed out barn quilts accessible on many area trails can make exercise more enjoyable.
“Shawano Pathways is for everyone and about accessible trails. We want to see more seniors get involved,” Mathison said. “You can walk as fast or as slow as you can, for as long as you want.”
Nancy Schultz, the University of Wisconsin-Extension family living agent for Shawano County, and members of the Strong Bones program demonstrated demonstrated weight training using soup cans and other household items.
Schultz also handed out pamphlets containing exercise routines used in the Strong Bones program, which she said has been a success.
“People in the program actually formed a family and began working out together,” Schultz said. “They are able to open bottles and containers they never were able to open before.”
Chiropractor Carrie Verkulien, of Verkulien Chiropractic and Wellness in Shawano, educated seniors on healthy eating habits, weight control and secrets to maintaining optimum health.
Physical therapist Jean Darling gave a lecture on body balance, including range of motion exercises.
The day also included breakfast and lunch, raffles and Bingo.
Konitzer said the event would not have been possible without volunteers and 12 area businesses that donated raffle items.
“It was a phenomenal response. We had a lot of volunteers, we had a lot of donations,” Konitzer said.
Businesses donating to the event were the Aging and Disabilities Resource Center of the Wolf River Region, Alzheimer’s Association, Charlie’s County Market, Shawano Community Education, CoVantage Credit Union, KindredHearts, Meadowland Assisted Living, Patricia Gipp, The Cottages, ThedaCare-At-Home, Visions of N.E.W. and SouthernCare Hospice.
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