HomePorts, Inc., is planning a community health fair on Thursday, April 2, 2015, from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Kent County Middle School in Chestertown. University of Maryland Shore Regional Health has joined the event as the top platinum level sponsor and partner, and is assisting HomePorts’ staff and volunteers with this community-minded health and wellness event.

“We are very excited to have UM Shore Regional Health as our platinum sponsor and partner for our community health fair,” Jim Donaghy, President, HomePorts’ Board of Directors comments. “Shore Regional Health is the largest health care provider in our local area and is focused on being an active player for the improvement of community health.”

The health fair, which is free and open to the public, will highlight over 50 community resources offering the latest health, wellness and safety issues and information. It is a one-stop for busy individuals and families of all ages to get health information, free screenings and assessments, and to connect with a variety of community organizations and resources. Local health care professionals and community exhibitors will be available to provide their expertise and guidance in emergency preparedness, health and nutrition information, as well as everyday positive lifestyle choices.

As a local nonprofit organization serving the aging population in Kent County, HomePorts understands the importance of health care, preventive medicine, and playing an active role in the community. Kent County strives to be a “community for a lifetime.” The aging population depends on a community that maintains positive health and well-being, and having ready access to preventive health screenings, wellness programs and current information on health issues is critical for all ages.

“This outreach event aims to educate members of the community on maintaining and improving their health,” comments Wayne D. Benjamin, MD, chair of the planning committee. “HomePorts, a seniors’ aging-in-place organization, has initiated this event because a healthy community benefits everyone, but seniors especially depend upon a population that is well. Kent County experiences high rates of chronic disease, and education is critical. I encourage residents to come learn about local resources, as well as to show your support for community health and safety needs.”

In conjunction with the health fair, a two-hour interactive and hands-on workshop titled “Your Plan for Living the Good Life” will also be offered, for a fee. Participants will prepare a personalized plan for successful aging, led by invited experts on Master Aging Plans.

For more information on exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities or about the event, please call 443-480-0940, email info@homeports.org or visit www.homeports.org.

“Are you afraid of falling and not being able to get up without assistance? Do you worry about not being able to assist someone else who falls? Do you know safe procedures for moving or helping someone else move from a bed to a chair?”

Brooke Maier, a physical therapist with 15 years experience and a member of the staff of Chester River Home Care (part of the University of Maryland Medical Center System), will be presenting a program to help with these concerns. She has trained physical therapists, done home evaluations for local rehabilitation centers and worked with planning prior to discharge of patients.

The program will provide information about body mechanics, safe transfers from one place to another, creating a safe environment, as well as things to do to help strengthen oneself and prevent falls.

The presentation will be offered by HomePorts on Wednesday, September 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Chestertown Town Hall Building at 118 N. Cross Street on the 2nd floor. The program is free for seniors and their families.

HomePorts, Inc. is a local non-profit aging-in-place membership organization providing access to a wide range of services designed to offer adults, age 55 and above, what is needed to remain safe and confident in their own residence. HomePorts offers a group of vetted volunteers to help members and referrals to service providers for transportation, grocery and household services, maintenance interior and exterior and much more. In addition, HomePorts offers social and educational opportunities and partners with Upper Shore Aging, Washington College and the University of Maryland Medical Center. There are some subsidies available for those with limited incomes.

Please contact HomePorts’ Executive Director, Karen Wright at 443-480-0940 or email her at karen@homeports.org if you plan to attend.

The 4th Annual Healthy Aging Symposium is being held April 15, 2014, at the Kent County Middle School in Chestertown from 8 am to 2 pm. Organized by HomePorts in cooperation with the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, the event is sponsored by over 20 local businesses and non-profit organizations.

Walter Ettinger, MD

The opening speaker is Walter Ettinger, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice-President, University of Maryland Medical System. He will speak on “The Health Care Revolution: What Does It Mean for You?” presenting his experience with the changing health care system and the potential effects on seniors.

Participants will also attend workshop sessions led by local practitioners on Hearing Impairment, Osteoporosis, Home Safety and Emergencies, and Preparation of “Master Aging Plans”. Sponsors will offer exhibits and information for those of all ages.

The facility, at 402 E. Campus Ave., is handicap-accessible.

Registration is open until April 8. For more information call 443-480-0940, visit www.homeports.org, or e-mail info@homeports.org.