June 30, 2011: Senior health seminar

St. Joseph Mercy Oakland (SJMO) still has places available for its free seminar on senior stress and depression, arthritis prevention and care and other senior health needs scheduled for Thursday, June 30, at the hospital, 44405 Woodward Ave., Pontiac.

“Dispelling Senior Health Myths and Misconceptions” will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Franco Communications Center. It is especially of interest to seniors and anyone who provides care or services for seniors. Pre-registration is required. To sign up, call 800-372-6094.

Topics and speakers will be:


Senior Stress and Depression, Donald E. Deering, PhD: Depression affects about six million Americans age 65 and older, but only 10 percent of those affected receive treatment. There are many reasons for this, including confusion with the effects of
multiple illnesses and medicines, stereotypes and loss of social support systems. But help is available and SJMO offers programs to help seniors cope.

Arthritis Prevention and Care, Safa Kassab, MD: While many elderly people do have
arthritis, anyone can develop the disease and not all seniors have it. There are many
viable arthritis prevention techniques, including exercise and maintaining proper weight. For those who do have arthritis, there are several effective options and more can be done today than ever before to ease the pain and slow joint destruction, including new drugs and treatments, exercise programs, surgeries and self-management. SJMO has a nationally renowned orthopedics program that offers these treatments.

Stroke Treatment, Connie Parliament, RN, MSN: Stroke is the third leading cause of
death in the United States and disables more adults than any other condition. SJMO is
the home of the Michigan Stroke Network that provides remote robotic consults as well
as 24/7 access to lifesaving procedures to reverse the symptoms of stroke.

Senior Emergency Care, Ashley Robinson, MHA: Seniors have unique care needs when
they suddenly need emergency treatment. Pre-existing medical conditions, multiple
medications, nutrition and issues with depression all impact injury or illness. That’s why SJMO created the first senior emergency program in Oakland County.

Cancer Screening, Erin Reese Burks, MHSA: Making healthy lifestyle choices can reduce a person’s risk of developing some cancers, and early detection is key. SJMO
offers a variety of cancer screenings and educational programs to help seniors reduce
their risk and check their health.