White Plains, NY (December 2011)- The Department of Senior Services at White Plains Hospital is hosting a health fair and holiday party on Monday December 12, 2011 from 10:00 to 11:30 AM in the food court at the Galleria Mall in White Plains.  Refreshments, health information and screenings on a variety of issues including nutrition, sleep hygiene, fall prevention, cardiac health, diabetes, stroke and cancer prevention will be offered to members of the community, and attendance is free of charge.  A brief presentation on health issues in late life will be given by the Hospital’s newly appointed Director of Geriatrics and Palliative Care, Raj Buddhavarapu, M.D.

The Department of Senior Services coordinates and hosts numerous health and wellness outreach events throughout the year, culminating with this annual fair.  A celebration to coincide with the announcement of expanded and enhanced Senior Services, including the appointment of a geriatric Nurse Practitioner; the addition of a program for caregivers called Partnerships in Dementia; and other outpatient wellness initiatives, will take place during the Spring.  Geri Brooks, R.N., G.N.P., the Hospital’s Senior Services Department Director for the past 25 years, commented on the value of the role of these programs for older adults and their families, “Today, being 80 years old is really like the new 60.  White Plains Hospital plays a critical role in maintaining the health and wellness of Seniors in our community, many of whom benefit greatly from these services that help them stay in their homes and live independent, safe and fulfilling lives well into their later years.”

For more information on the December 12th event please call the Department of Senior Services at (914) 681-1249.  Additional information on programs offered under the Department of Senior Services can be found at:
http://www.wphospital.org/Programs-Services/Senior-Services.aspx