For people who like to meet others, learn about health tips and travel short distances for entertainment, Woodward Regional Hospital is launching a new organization called Senior Circle.
The program, for people 50 years old or better, will offer a weekly one-hour exercise class, a weekly discussion group, a monthly health talk and occasional trips out of town, according to hospital spokeswoman Lori Messenger.
“We want to reach people to provide some education on healthy lifestyles and to promote a good feeling toward the hospital,” Messenger said.
Free screenings will be offered for blood pressure, blood sugar, body mass index and more, she said.
“I think there are people out there who will enjoy (the group),” she said. “People who have gone through changes in their lives, such as just moving to Woodward, or who are recently widowed would be interested.
Messenger said. “This gives them a chance to meet other people and enjoy the social aspects of the program.”
Others would also be interested in it, she said.
Dues to participate in the program are only $15 a year, she said
The discussion groups will include current event topics, such as wind farms, and talks involving local authors.
One of the trips for Senior Circle has already been planned for Sept. 23 to Oklahoma City.
The group will depart at 8 a.m. and stop first in Bricktown to take a ride on a water taxi on the Bricktown Canal.
Members will learn about the history and future of this area on the narrated tour. Lunch at Bricktown is included. The group will then visit the governor’s mansion, which has been home to governors since 1928.
The trip will also include other stops before the bus returns to Woodward.
With all of this, “We want to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for seniors by providing programs that encourage continued learning, wellness, health and volunteering, coupled with a host of social activities,” Messenger said.
The first Senior Circle program will be held from 10 a.m. to noon July 21 at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Patrick Kelley will speak about joint health. Snacks and refreshments will be served and health screenings will be offered. Vendors also will be present.
Messenger said membership to the program will mean that seniors can receive discounts from various businesses in the community.
All the members have to do to receive a discount is present their membership card, she said.
