Shelly Lampreau officiated as MC at the Senior’s Wellness Fair in Barriere at the Ridge on Oct. 20. She introduced each speaker throughout the day, starting with a number of dignitaries who welcomed everyone to the event.
At 10:45 a.m., there was a presentation by Barriere IDA Pharmacist Steve Wowchuck on the interactions between vitamins and minerals with prescription medications. For instance, if you are taking medication for acne - don’t also take vitamin A; if you are taking an anti-depressant, don’t take St. John’s Wart. A lively question and answer period followed his presentation.
At 11:45 a.m., it was Public Health Nurse, Angela Semrick. She went over the new version of the Canada Food Guide, explaining how to read it and what constitutes a “portion” according to the Guide.
After a light lunch, there was an opportunity for those interested in some gentle stretching in the ‘quiet room’ (the multi-purpose room) with Tammy York.
Lawyer Phil Ransome gave a presentation on Estate Planning; followed by a presentation on Elder Abuse by Yellowhead Community Services councilor Grace Baker; the final presentation was on Fraud, by Barriere RCMP Corporal Steve Mancini.
Throughout the event there were door prizes and draws to enter at some of the displays around the hall.
There were displays from Interior Health (where Semrick was giving willing victims tetanus booster shots), Armour Mountain Office Services, the Yellowhead Pioneer Residence, Heart Foot Care, Yellowhead Community Services, Alzheimer’s, and several more.
The response from those who attended has been very positive, and there is much encouragement for organizers to hold more Senior Wellness Fairs within the community in the future.