NEWS RELEASE
October 24, 2024
Contact: Aislyn McQueen
Dept. of Senior Services
ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SENIOR SERVICES HOSTS INAUGURAL LIVE WELL ERIE HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR FOR OLDER ADULTS
Erie County, NY – The Erie County Department of Senior Services, in collaboration with the Live Well Erie Older Adult Focus Group, successfully hosted the first-ever Live Well Erie Health and Wellness Fair on Thursday, October 24th, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The M Hotel in Cheektowaga. This milestone event was dedicated to empowering older adults in our community by providing them with essential resources to enhance their health, well-being, and overall quality of life.
The Live Well Erie Health and Wellness Fair was thoughtfully designed to offer older adults direct access to a variety of community organizations that specialize in health services and other supportive programs. In addition, attendees received expert guidance on Medicare and Medicaid as most older adults are navigating open enrollment, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. With winter approaching, the fair also emphasized emergency preparedness, providing valuable resources and emergency kits to help older adults prepare for potential challenges during the colder months.
Live Well Erie is a comprehensive, data-driven initiative involving over 150 partners from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Together, these partners are committed to improving health outcomes and elevating the overall quality of life for Erie County residents. The initiative's mission is to help every resident achieve their full potential by focusing on nine broad goals across three key populations: children, working families, and older adults. Through strategic community collaborations, Live Well Erie is making significant strides in enhancing the lives of its citizens.
"The Live Well Erie Older Adults Wellness Fair was an event dedicated to supporting the health and vitality of our community's older adults. This fair provided an invaluable opportunity for our older adults across Erie County to access resources, engage in wellness activities, and connect with professionals who care deeply about their well-being. By empowering older adults to live healthier, more active lives, we're fostering a stronger, more vibrant community for all" - Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera.
The fair featured an impressive lineup of 70 different community organizations and healthcare providers who shared valuable information on various topics, including healthcare services, nutrition and fitness programs, housing assistance, transportation solutions, and other essential needs. Additionally, attendees learned about volunteer opportunities to stay connected within the community. The event also included educational sessions on Medicare and Medicaid basics, a Silver Sneakers fitness demonstration, a Scams and Scams Awareness Session provided by the Erie County District Attorney's Office, and a CPR class, all supporting Erie County’s commitment to becoming a heart-safe community.
“The Live Well Erie Health and Wellness Fair was a fantastic event that highlighted the importance of collaboration among our community partners. By coming together, we are able to provide our older adults with important resources and support. It’s inspiring to see how these connections not only enhance their health and well-being but also strengthen our entire community.” - Commissioner of Senior Services Angela Marinucci.
Looking ahead, Live Well Erie and the Department of Senior Services are excited to continue collaborating with our community partners. Together, we are dedicated to strengthening resources and expanding opportunities for our older adults, ensuring they remain connected, informed, and empowered in every season.
For more information
Live Well Erie: https://www4.erie.gov/livewellerie/
Senior Services: https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/
