Aging Topics

'Survival Journey' planned for baby boomers in January

By Lori O'Brien

Correspondent

HOLYOKE- For baby boomers and those soon-to-be, the possibilities seem endless on ways to defy aging. A fun and informative workshop being modeled after the popular CBS' "Survivor" series titled "Survival of the Baby Boomer" is slated for Jan. 27 and promises a fast-paced schedule of successful aging topics and survivor challenges.

"Most people in the baby boomer age group have experienced a lot during their lives and now is the time to challenge themselves to be their best," said Sue Fontaine, Senior Class Coordinator, Baystate Health, during an interview with Reminder Publications.

The 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. "journey," as Fontaine calls it, is planned at the Baystate Health Education Center, 361 Whitney Ave.

Fontaine noted that both men and women will benefit from learning realistic tools to help live healthier and more productive lives.

"It's an opportunity to talk with our medical experts and get answers to questions about aging and have fun in the process," she added.

The "Survivor Journey" begins at 10 a.m. with music and refreshments, followed by a presentation titled "Successful Aging" by Dr. Donal O'Hanlon, staff psychiatrist, board-certified in Geriatric Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Baystate Medical Center. Dr. O'Hanlon will discuss the effects of aging on memory and the brain, including early warning signs of dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and other problems. He will also offer techniques on how participants can keep one's mind sharp.

Dr. Neal Seymour, surgeon, F.A.C.S., chief, General Surgery, Baystate Medical, will follow with a lecture titled "Heartburn, GERD & Minimally Invasive Surgery." Dr. Seymour will provide information about heartburn and GERD, including diagnosis, triggers, and the latest treatment options.

Premature aging, wrinkles and skin damage are also concerns of baby boomers and will be addressed by Dr. Melissa Johnson, plastic surgeon, Baystate Plastic Surgery Associates, in a lecture titled "Facial Rejuvenation." Dr. Johnson will provide options to help one turn back the clock, including nonsurgical and surgical methods, and the Obagi skin care system.

Fontaine noted that surviving the challenges of modern life often results in aches and pains that are associated with aging. Dr. Julio Martinez-Silvestrini, a physiatrist and sports medicine specialist with Baystate Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, will discuss "Exercise, Joint Pain & Physiology," which includes causes for muscle and joint pain, treatment options, and simple exercises that can be done to help combat pain and immobility.

Rounding out the morning session will be a lecture titled "Heart Health" by Dr. Gregory Giugliano, cardiologist, S.M., F.A.C.C., F.S.C.A.I., Interventional Cardiology associate director, Cardiac Catheterization Lab associate director, Cardiology Research, Baystate Medical Center. Dr. Giugliano will discuss the effects that life in the "jungle" can have on your heart, as well as warning signs of an impending problem and steps you can take to reduce your risks.

A break at noon will include a "survivor challenge" and a Caribbean lunch.

The afternoon picks up promptly at 1:15 with a tropical dessert and Q & A with "The Tribal Counsel," Baystate's panel of medical experts. At the close of the session, participants will take home a "Baby Boomer Survivor Kit."

The cost of the program is $20 for Baystate's Senior Class/Spirit of Women members and $25 for nonmembers. Persons can register by calling The Professionals at 1-800-377-HEALTH. The deadline to register for the program is Jan. 19.

If you are feeling adventurous, wear your favorite tropical island attire, added Fontaine.