Flu Shots, Free Screenings

Offered At Senior Expo 2002

 October 22, 2002

ROME – Rome Memorial Hospital will be providing flu shots, free screenings, and health information 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, at Ava Dorfman Senior Center, 305 E. Locust St., as part of Senior Expo 2002. 

Community agencies will feature information regarding health, money, nutrition and senior services at the event, which is coordinated by the Senior Citizens Council of Rome, Rome Memorial Hospital, Oneida County Office for the Aging, Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Network Health, Rome Sentinel Prime Time and Rome Savings Bank. 

“For healthy young adults, the flu may be little more than a bad cold,” said Gale Barone, R.N., Director of Education at Rome Memorial Hospital. “But, it can have devastating affects on the elderly and the chronically ill. In an average year, influenza is associated with about 20,000 deaths nationwide and many more hospitalizations, according to CDC statistics.” 

The vaccine is strongly recommended for people 65 and older, those with other medical conditions, and healthcare workers. The flu vaccine changes every year to target different strains of the virus, which tend to change each year.  

The cost of the shot is $10.  The hospital will bill Medicare for those who bring their cards. It is not recommended for people who are allergic to eggs.  

At the expo, seniors can also have their blood pressure checked and learn the risk factors for heart disease, stroke and osteoporosis.  Information on recognizing the signs of depression will also be available. 

Adult daycare will be available from 4 to 7 p.m. to give caregivers the opportunity to visit the Senior Expo.  “Often times, when people are caring for an elderly spouse or their parents, they can’t get away to do something for themselves,” said Lynn Robinson, Senior Daycare Coordinator.  “By having adult daycare available, we’re hoping more people will come out to learn about the services that are available to seniors in our community.” 

Participants can also learn more about Ava Dorfman’s Caregiver Support Group, which will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. during the Expo. 

No advance registration is required for the Senior Health Expo. Refreshments will be available.