Senior expo gives residents health tips
Texarkana residents could have their blood pressure checked, play games and win door prizes Friday at the Senior Health and Wellness Expo.
The 17th annual expo, held at Texarkana Convention Center, was successful, according to organizers.
“I think we have had more people than ever this year,” said Andi Darby, senior account executive for Townsquare Media, which organized the event.
Wadley Senior Clinic was the title sponsor. The Gazette’s Active Age magazine was also a sponsor.
Darby said having a variety of information in a central location was one reason the expo was a success.
The event, which was for people 50 and older, included free health screenings and tests for blood pressure, body mass index and heart problems. Though the expo centered on health and wellness, vendors shared information on a number of other subjects, including finances and travel.
“We have had a very good reception this morning,” said Shelby Brown, spokeswoman for Wadley. “It’s been very steady. Most people will stop by and visit for a minute, and that’s what you want.”
Brown said many people have been prepared with specific questions about information they are looking for. The Wadley Scan Van had appointments booked all morning, with several people asking if they could be added to the schedule.
There were also games at the expo and a presentation by elder law attorneys John Ross and Lisa Shoalmire from the firm of Ross and Shoalmire.
A growing senior population encouraged organizers to start the event several years ago after the success of the Wild About Wellness Children’s Health Fair.