Date: Fri 01-Nov-1996

Publication: Bee

Author: ANDREA

Quick Words:

health-lunch-and-learn

Full Text:

with photo: Lunching While Learning About Wellness

B Y A NDREA Z IMMERMANN

By changing our "filters" we can perceive our world more positively, broaden

our lives, and help maintain physical health. That was the message shared by

professors Lois and Robert Wolsch at the free Healthy At Any Age Lunch and

Learn Program for senior citizens.

The monthly program, sponsored by Ashlar of Newtown and the Cyrenius Booth

Library, is designed to communicate basic health care information to assist

seniors in making decisions about their own care. Although the range of topics

is wide, all of the programs focus on wellness and offer practical suggestions

on how to care for yourself. A brown bag style lunch is provided free to

participants.

"I thought it was very informative," said Cliff Bumford of Newtown, who came

to the kick-off program this week with fellow members of a widow/widowers

support group. "It helped me understand how to get people to do things without

hurting their feelings."

The Wolschs shared anecdotes and techniques, and welcomed questions from the

participants. The group laughed, asked for suggestions on specific situations,

and some shared their feelings. The speakers, themselves, said the feedback

they received was very interesting and informative. "Everyone was honest and

outgoing," said Mr Wolsch, who added that he and his wife really enjoyed

volunteering to speak at such events.

"I learned a lot about words and how to use them [in a positive way]," said

Lucy Marra, of Brookfield. "We'll be back. We're already planning that."

As part of Ashlar's community outreach, Lunch and Learn is modeled after a

similar program offered by its Masonic care affiliate in Wallingford in

conjunction with the local library. The success of that endeavor has inspired

Community Resources Manager Evelyn Lawrance this is correct to establish the

program here in Newtown.

The program runs from 12:30 to 2 pm in the undercroft of Trinity Church at the

corner of Church Hill Road and Main Street. Upcoming Lunch and Learn meetings

are "The Power of Touch" (aroma therapy, massage and relaxation, the

importance of contact with other people) on November 19, and "Facing the

Holidays When The Kids Are Adults" on December 17. Topics for future programs

will be chosen in response suggestions from participants. When the library

expansion is completed, meetings will be moved there.

Any senior citizen interested in attending the Healthy At Any Age Lunch and

Learn Program on the third Tuesday of the month, may register by callingEvelyn

Lawrance at Ashlar of Newtown, 426-5847.