Barbara Fradkin – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: For the past year and a half, I feel like I have been living in a bubble. Where do I go to get information and education on health-related matters?
A: I think a lot of people feel the same way; almost like the pandemic has created a state of indefinite suspension. 
Many people have not followed up with their doctors, stopped seeing their dentist, and ignored health conditions.
Understandably, routines were changed in order to protect ourselves and others.
However, some people decided that meant forgoing necessary care, like annual physicals and follow-ups with specialists. But now that people are being vaccinated, it is time to get back on track and monitor any medical concerns we ignored.
One way to get a lot of information in a short amount of time is to attend a health fair.
These events provide an easy introduction to local clinics, mental health providers and physicians –in one fell swoop.
Education provided by experts at such events can be valuable as well, and may be the only health care contact some people receive.
When you think of health fairs and expos, what comes to mind? Rows of tables covered in boring medical pamphlets and people getting their blood pressure taken?
Get ready to change your point of view.
Nowadays, the health fair is filled with health care experts who provide an opportunity to learn something new.
It could be something you never heard of, or something you always wanted to know but were afraid to ask!
Health fairs are a great way to meet new people and medical professionals.
After being in that bubble for so long, wouldn’t it be great to get out and make some helpful new acquaintances?
What about getting that free hearing test you have been putting off for so long? Believe me, your spouse will thank you.
How about the protruding veins in your legs? Don’t you want to know what is causing that?
You can get all of this from going to a health fair and chatting up the pros.
Don’t forget the flu shots. Many health fairs have pharmacy staff on site, offering the flu or pneumonia shot.
Why wait in your doctor’s office, when you can walk in to a health fair and get yours right away?
Shameless plug: Join One Senior Place on Friday, September 10th for a Be Healthy, Be Happy Fair from 10-1 PM. Get information, screenings, flu shots and door prizes — while learning how to Be Healthy, Be Happy! To register early for the fair, call me at 321-751-6771.
##
One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. To submit a question, send an email to askOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging at OneSeniorPlace.com. Barbara Fradkin is a Social Worker, Certified Care Manager and the Director for One Senior Place, Viera.
