Aging Gracefully Expo: Strengthen Your Mind, Body & Spirit

The Holmstad, a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community administered by Covenant Retirement Communities, and North Park University will present the Aging Gracefully Expo, a daylong event designed to soften the aging process by strengthening the mind, body and spirit.

The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at The Holmstad, located at 700 W. Fabyan Parkway, Batavia, Ill., 60510.

At 10 a.m., nationally recognized geriatric neurologist and dementia specialist Dr. Marwan Sabbagh will kick off the event with a lecture on the role diet plays in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Co-author of “The Alzheimer’s Prevention Cookbook: Recipes to Boost Brain Health,” Sabbagh will highlight specific foods that can help lower the risk of cognitive decline. He’ll also share tips on how to prepare brain-smart recipes that taste delicious.

At 11 a.m., enjoy a healthful lunch prepared by Executive Chef Warren DeWolfe.

From noon – 2 p.m., three 45-minute workshops will run simultaneously. Choose from two of the following:

“Eating Joyfully: Honoring Your Body, Nourishing Your Soul,” with Dr. Suzen M. Moeller

Eating healthy does more than fuel the body; it nourishes the soul. Dr. Moeller will describe what makes healthy food “healthy,” and then explain why eating food packed with nutrition nourishes your spiritual well being. Learn to pause and notice what you’re eating – it will transform your relationship with food, and it will transform your health! Dr. Moeller is an associate professor of nursing for health sciences at North Park University, Chicago.

“Living Mindfully,” with Dr. Jan Zeller

Power CEOs like Oprah and LinkedIn’s Jeff Weiner swear by living mindfully. But even if you’re not a power broker you can still benefit from choosing to live a more thoughtful, present life. Studies show those who live mindfully have less stress, sleep more soundly and focus better. Dr. Zeller will explain the science behind the hype, and suggest ways to learn about and cultivate this sense of calm into our daily lives. Dr. Zeller is a researcher, professor and director of the graduate program of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at North Park University, Chicago.

“Persistent Pain,” with Dr. Trudy DeWaters

Pain is not a normal part of aging, and yet many senior adults experience persistent pain on a regular basis. Persistent pain can last over a long period of time, or it can come and go over a period of months and years. Either way, it interferes with daily activities and diminishes quality of life. She will offer suggestions to help manage chronic and everyday pain. Dr. DeWaters is an associate professor of nursing at North Park University, Chicago, and a geriatric nurse practitioner with experience in pain management, primary care and long-term care of the elderly.

In addition to attending workshops, explore a variety of exhibitors throughout the day, and stop by booths to have your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol checked.

The event is free of charge, but space is limited. To RSVP please visit www.TheHolmstad.org or call 877–226-7310.

The Holmstad, a faith-based, not-for-profit continuing care retirement community, is located at 700 W. Fabyan Parkway, Batavia, Ill. It is administered by Covenant Retirement Communities, one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit senior services providers. Covenant Retirement Communities serves 5,000 residents at 15 retirement communities nationwide and is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church. For more information on The Holmstad, call (630) 870-4100 or visitwww.TheHolmstad.org.