By Joan F. Simoneau, Contributing Writer
Marlborough – A prevention strategy designed to protect the quality of life and boost longevity for seniors is being offered in Marlborough and meeting with much success. Sara Oliveira, a community health worker for the Marlborough Health Department, is conducting home visits to assess living conditions and making recommendations to prevent falls from happening in the home.
“It is much easier and healthier to focus on preventing falls than it is to recover from the potentially serious consequences of a fall,” said Oliveira. The free program is provided by a Prevention Wellness Trust Fund grant from the MetroWest Health Foundation.
After the assessment she can also help with obtaining health insurance, food bank services, and transportation needs.
“Other recommendations I can offer are taking Tai Chi and matter of balance classes, offered at the Council on Aging senior center,” said Oliveira.
The grant also provides a tobacco cessation program, according to Cathleen Liberty, director of public health for city of Marlborough. “Sara will also be working with the elder population on tobacco education programs.”
Residents 65 years of age or old, may apply for a free home safety assessment by calling 508-460-3751 and ask for Oliveira, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
