Health fair targets seniors’ well-being

Franklin County Extension Coordinator Katernia Cole Coffey shares Extension updates and promotes breast cancer awareness at the Senior Health Fair.

The annual Senior Health Fair, co-sponsored by the Franklin County Extension and the Foster Grandparents Program, was held Oct. 29 at the A.W. Todd Center.

“The goal is to keep our senior citizens educated and informed,” said Franklin County Extension Coordinator Katernia Cole Coffey.

Attendees learned about topics ranging from container gardening to Alzheimer’s Disease as well as heart and brain health.

Participants also got the chance to visit vendors’ exhibits and learn about available services and take advantage of health screenings.

Following lunch, Kathy Spears with NACOLG led those assembled in a stanza of “Happy Birthday” to celebrate the birthday of Medicare, and attendees enjoyed birthday cake.

Cole said the turnout was a little lower than it has been in past years, and she hopes to encourage greater participation in the future.

Sponsors and exhibitors included the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ALFA Insurance, Bank Independent, the City of Russellville, Foster Grandparent Program, Franklin County Commission, Franklin County Times, Franklin Free Press, Gentiva Home Health, Hospice of North Alabama, Joseph Naidu Foundation, Helen Keller Hospital – Red Bay, Lake Point Behavioral Health, Listerhill Credit Union, North Alabama Council of Local Governments, Russellville Hospital, Scofield Home Health and Village Square Apartments.

Coffey also thanks door prize sponsors and Pilgrim’s Restaurant for their contributions to the event.