May is Older Americans Month and Dr. Rosemarie Caillier is helping to pay tribute to older adults in the West Alabama region. The Area Agency on Aging of West Alabama is sponsoring Senior Appreciation Day 2015 and are encouraging all seniors to “Get Into The Act” at the University of Alabama’s Bryant Conference Center. Attendees are encouraged to come to this free event dressed as their favorite Hollywood Star to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Older American’s Act. Numerous service providers, sponsors and exhibitors will be there to provide resources and education important to the senior population.
The event attracts some 1,000 seniors from Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens and Tuscaloosa counties. Attendees spend the day visiting various vendors that serve the mature market, enjoying music, games, participating in health screenings, and much more. Seniors also receive a boxed lunch and are eligible for numerous door prizes.
Our podiatry practice is happy to be part of this exciting event. Dr. Rosemarie Caillier enjoys giving back to the community and will be conducting free diabetic foot screenings for seniors in attendance. As a podiatrist, she routinely educates the public on the importance of foot care. Diabetes can cause poor blood flow, loss of feeling and slow wound healing in the feet. With other problems like fungal infections, corns and calluses, dry skin, ingrown toenails, hammertoes, and bunion, there can be added risks for serious foot complications.
Almost 28 percent of people with diabetes don’t know they have it. Often a podiatrist is the first to detect the disease by examining the feet. Including a podiatrist as part of diabetes care can reduce the risk of an amputation up to 85 percent, according to a study by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
If you live in West Alabama and would like to enjoy a fun and informative day in Tuscaloosa, come out to Senior Appreciation Day 2015. Call the Area Agency on Aging of West Alabama at 205-333-2990 or 800-432-5030 for reservations. Allow Dr. Caillier to evaluate your diabetic foot health risk so that you can continue to enjoy an active life on your feet.
