Free Workshop Gives Older Adults Taste of Healthy Living

Pam McGaffin

As we age and our bodies change, our nutritional and fitness needs change too. The Healthy Aging Partnership is hosting a free workshop Wednesday, May 24, to help older adults make wise food choices, stay physically active and lead healthier lives.

A Taste of Healthy Living begins at 8:15 a.m. at the Rainier Community Center, 4600 38th Ave. S. in Seattle, and ends at 3:00 p.m. with a trip to the nearby Columbia City Farmers' Market.

In this lively and interactive workshop, participants will get a wealth of practical advice and information. They'll learn about the Tufts Food Guide Pyramid for older adults, shopping and cooking strategies, the role of oral health and simple and safe exercises for fun and fitness.

A light breakfast and full lunch are included, along with recipes and raffle drawings for prizes.

The presenters will include Mary Podrabsky, consultant with the National Policy and Resource Center on Nutrition, Aging and Physical Activity; Janet Kapp, of Public Health-Seattle & King County; Diane Lowry Oakes, of the Washington Dental Service Foundation; and Brenda Barkey, EnhanceFitness instructor.

Following a humorous and inspiring closing message, participants will break up into neighborhood groups to discuss what they can do individually and collectively to improve health. After the workshop, attendees can walk or take a shuttle van to the Columbia City Farmers' Market for a self-guided tour.

While the workshop is open to the public, space is limited. Register by May 17 by calling 206-832-1900, ex. 1970.

The Healthy Aging Partnership is a coalition of 40 Puget Sound organizations dedicated to the health and well-being of older adults. Information on a host of aging issues is available by calling its free and confidential help line at 1-888-4ELDERS (1-888-435-3377).

Photo: Ken Hammond, USDA