For Frances, Barbara, Shirley, and around 25 other Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) members, the Woonsocket Senior Center is a great place to socialize, relax, and participate in various activities—including health-related programs and services. Susan Sgambato, Senior Wellness Manager, and Linda Thibault, R.N., Nurse Outreach Coordinator—both with Senior Services, Inc., a private nonprofit agency that delivers elder services at the center—keep these seniors on their toes with regular exercise and healthcare outreach. BCBSRI supports their efforts by providing nutrition and exercise services through the Health & Wellness Institute®.
What are the health conditions you see most among seniors?
Linda: "High blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, pulmonary conditions, arthritis, and cancer are the most common health issues. We can help monitor them and facilitate early intervention to deal with problems before they require emergency care or hospitalization."
What can seniors do to manage these conditions?
Susan: "These adults can lower their risk by adopting healthier behaviors and getting recommended screenings. Because exercise is critical to managing any chronic disease, we offer classes three times a week, and they're helping. In one three-month period, for example, the blood sugar levels of our type 2 diabetics decreased by 32 to 55 percent after a 45-minute workout, while our prediabetic seniors experienced an 11- to 30-percent decrease."
Linda and Susan say their most important role is teaching seniors to take control of their health. "We want seniors to know everything they can about their diseases," says Linda. "That will help them make better choices, ask more and better questions, and forge strong partnerships with their doctors."
