April 4, 2003

Senior HealthWISE program offers seniors tips and exercise

Last year, the MGH launched a program that focuses on a specific population in nearby neighborhoods. Called MGH Senior HealthWISE (wellness, involvement, support and education), the program is designed to improve the health and well-being of seniors living in the Beacon Hill and West End areas.

The program includes wellness centers that are held for one afternoon every week at three senior housing facilities — the Beacon House, the Blackstone Apartments and the Amy Lowell House. The program also offers the services of a resource specialist who helps seniors access resources in the community that will help them in their everyday lives. Such resources include home delivery of meals, transportation services and assistance with getting insurance coverage for medications.

Another resource for seniors is educational seminars (follow link for schedule) that address topics such as maintaining diet, nutrition and exercise to managing blood pressure and diabetes. The seminars are held on the hospital's main campus for all community seniors. The on-campus offerings also include the hospital's Senior Supper Club, which gives seniors the opportunity to dine at the hospital's Eat Street Café at a discounted rate. The club also provides free health screenings and educational events.

All programs will be held from 4 to 5 pm in the MGH East Garden Dining Room.