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| Expo
offers tips for home |
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| NEW BRITAIN -- The Triad organization, a combined effort of the police department, community agencies and senior citizens, hosted a safety exposition to educate elderly residents on health and wellness resources offered in the city. |
| "We
want our seniors to be aware of the convenient technologies and services
they all have access to," said NBPD Community Officer Carol Zesut.
"And I hope everyone who attends is able to take advantage of the
information offered to them today." Students from Central Connecticut State University's social work program served a free breakfast and lunch to the large gathering of seniors at the center, 55 Pearl St., Friday morning. All attendees were also eligible to win raffle prizes including fire extinguishers, flashlights, fruit baskets and $10 gift cards for grocery stores and reduced pharmaceutical costs. "The gift cards are especially useful because so many of our seniors are on fixed incomes and every little bit helps," Zesut said. Program presenters offered solutions for preserving senior citizens' independence and initiatives to stay safe both in the home and out in the community. Evelyn Oliver Knight, public information and outreach coordinator for the State Department of Social Services Bureau of Rehabilitation, demonstrated assistive technology tools ranging from button hole helpers to extended shoe horns for seniors with limited mobility. Knight said all of the devices are used to help improve seniors quality of life by maintaining their freedom. "This project is not only for seniors, but for any individual with a physical disability," Knight said. "Maintaining their independence keeps them strong." Knight also offered information on the availability of all of the products shown. The Department of Municipal Development provided literature on alternative energy programs and the New Britain Commission on Community and Neighborhood Development's housing rehabilitation program. "The rehabilitation program is available for anyone who falls between a low- to moderate-income range," said Deborah Anderson. "We help with cost estimates and work with contractors to make repairs on homeowners' property." American Savings Bank presented information on avoiding identity theft. The Weed & Seed program focused on senior safety within the community, advocating tips for preventing and reporting crimes. "This helps us learn about all the choices we have and to avoid being helpless," said Wanda Olszewski, a New Britain resident. "Gathering all this literature allows us to take it home, digest it and act on it." Megan Clair can be reached at mclair@newbritainherald.com or by calling (860) 225-4601, ext. 223.
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| ŠThe Herald 2002 |