Seniors receive free health screening

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NAGUATUCK — Naugatuck and surrounding area seniors had a rare chance to get their overall health examined free of charge last Thursday at the Senior Center.

The Western Connecticut Area Agency on Aging (WCAAA) and the state Department of Social Services sponsored a free, walk-in health clinic, which boasted booths where seniors could get their feet, teeth, and eyes examined, their kidney health evaluated, and their diabetic risks analyzed.

Dr. Brian N. Perelmuter examined seniors' oral health last Thursday.
Dr. Brian N. Perelmuter examined seniors' oral health last Thursday.

Medical professionals filled two rooms of the center and assessed various aspects of seniors’ health as others enjoyed a special healthy lunch in the dining room.

Senior Center Director Harvey Leon Frydman said the WCAAA organized a free health clinic for the first time last year. And although seniors enjoy an occasional health fair, where vendors solicit their patronage, it’s a somewhat rare privilege to get a free, one-on-one, bona fide health evaluation.

“We’re flattered that the agency and the state chose the Naugatuck Senior Center,” Frydman said. “I think it’s very nice that [seniors] are able to go to each different station.”

He added that health services for those who most need them are especially valuable in a tough economic time.

“We did this because of the economy. People aren’t always going to the doctor; they’re spending that money on heat, on rent or on food,” he said. “This helps in some way to make sure people stay healthy.”

Marion L. Pollack, a registered nurse and a care management coordinator with the WCAAA, said the services offered were preventative in nature.