WS Chronicle

By Deb Burcombe

There has never been a better time for all of us to look at ways that we can stay healthy. This is especially true during the pandemic as older adults can often be at a higher risk for more serious symptoms from the COVID virus. 

So how can older adults, and those who love them, stay connected and learn about ways to stay healthy – all from the safety and comfort of home? By joining the FREE monthly AgingWell Series! This series is sponsored by the Wake Forest Baptist Health, Sticht Center for Healthy Aging and Alzheimer’s Prevention, and is presented from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month via Zoom. 

The AgingWell Series is a one-hour, on-line program that not only provides valuable information on different healthy living tips, but also features an “EatingWell” segment each month hosted by local chefs from area restaurants who provide cooking demonstrations of some of their most popular dishes. In addition to the cooking programs, the series also features a monthly “MovingWell” segment that demonstrates different types of physical activities that are effective, safe, fun and can all be done at home!  

The January 12 presentation will feature Jamy Ard, M.D., professor, Epidemiology and Prevention at Wake Forest Baptist Health. Dr. Ard will be leading the discussion on “How to Keep Your Healthy New Year’s Resolution During a Pandemic.” 

January’s AgingWell participants will also be treated to a cooking demonstration by Chef Michael Millan, co-owner and executive chef of Mojito Latin Soul Food located on Trade Street in downtown Winston-Salem. Chef Michael, along with his wife and business partner Michelle, will be showing how to create some of their specialty Cuban dishes. 

Presenting on safe exercise activities that you can do in your home to stay fit will be Tim Gribble and Daryl Pobanz, trainers with a local YMCA and certified group exercise instructors and personal trainers with the American Fitness Association of America. Tim and Daryl will be demonstrating different exercises that can be easily done from the comfort of your home.

While it is FREE to participate in the AgingWell Series, we ask that anyone who wants to participate please e-mail us at: AgingWellSeries@WakeHealth.edu and you will be sent the link to join the meeting.

It is important to register so that you will receive: 1) the recipes from the cooking demonstrations, 2) detailed instructions on the exercises, 3) tips for keeping your new year’s resolutions during a pandemic, 4) AND you will be entered in the monthly door prize drawing!

So mark your calendar now for January 12, 5:30 p.m.,for a lively hour of education, information, and fun – just for seniors!