The Bradenton Herald welcomes information on health-related events open to the public. The deadline for submitting information is noon Friday, eight days ahead of Saturday publication. Information - including time, date and place - can be dropped off, mailed to the Bradenton Herald, P.O. Box 921, Bradenton, FL 34206, or faxed to 745-7097. Complete listings can be found at Bradenton.com. All addresses are Bradenton, unless otherwise noted.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Health Day at Mixon
Mixon Fruit Farms, 2712 26th Ave. E., Bradenton, will host a Health Day 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 20. The event will feature 23 venders that will be available with information and free visual screening. Participants can learn about Alzheimer’s, stroke prevention and awareness, prosthesis, special phones for hard of hearing, help with medical papers, electric scooters, individual pharmacy service, and much more. Florida Blood Services seeks blood donors, who receive a half gallon of Mixon’s Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice. Information: 748-5829, ext. 256.
Benefit for mental illness
Volunteers of America Florida will hold a fundraiser 8 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Hilton Garden Inn, 8270 N. Tamiami Trail. Impersonator Rick Larrimore will perform “The Ultimate Tribute to Rod Stewart.” The event will benefit people with mental illness who utilize the organization’s Drop in Center, 2012 43rd Ave. W., Bradenton. The center offers daily activities, a computer lab, employment and interpersonal skill development, social gatherings and outings for people with a mental illness in Manatee County. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at door. Information: 751-4168, Jeff Logan at ext. 25 or Melissa Tuller at ext. 22.
Tai chi, yoga classes
Manatee Technical Institute, 5603 34th St. W., Bradenton, will offer an integral ongoing tai chi class 6-7 p.m. Saturdays starting Jan. 20. Cost: $70. The center also offers a yoga class 5-6:15 p.m. Wednesdays, which started earlier this week. Cost: $75. The tai chi class runs 10 sessions, and the yoga for 12. For registration and further information call 751-7900, ext. 2043.
Manatee Memorial presentations
Manatee Memorial Hospital’s Medical Update Series will be Jan. 30 at the Manatee Convention and Civic Center’s Palma Sola Room, One Haben Blvd., Palmetto. All programs are free, but seating is limited. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Reservations: (800) 816-4145.
The topics and speakers are:
• 9-9:50 a.m., “Repair, Replace or Resurface: Treatment Options for your Painful Knee” by Dr. John R. Ayres, who will take you step-by-step on what treatment options you have to fix your knees.
• 10-10:50 a.m., “Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques . . . Less Pain, Faster Recovery” by Dr. Jose Erbella, who will discuss the latest techniques employed so patients may return to their normal lives as quickly as possible. Hernia, hemorrhoid, colorectal, abdominal, adrenal and parathyroid surgeries will be discussed.
• 11 a.m.-noon, “Women’s Wellness: Cancer Screening, Osteoporosis and Incontinence” by Dr. Jennifer Swanson, who will discuss the latest information, treatments and procedures for women and answer those need to know questions.
Widowed persons group
The Anna Maria Island Widowed Persons Support Group meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month until April from 9-10 a.m. for “Coffee and Conversation.” This year’s meetings will be in a mobile trailer behind St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbor Drive in Holmes Beach, due to construction on the Anna Maria Island Community Center.
The upcoming schedule includes:
• Jan. 22, Phyllis Elfenbein, director of the Anna Maria Playhouse, will discuss its programs and her experience in the theater.
• Feb. 12, group meets for “Coffee and Conversation.”
• Feb. 26, Suki Janisch with Southeatern Guide Dogs will talk about the role of a guide dog.
• March 12, group meets for “Coffee and Conversation.”
• March 26, Susan K. Frost and Andy Little will talk about writing and editing.
Information: 778-1908.
Health screenings
Cholestcheck Health Screening Services will host these free screenings:
• Cholesterol and diabetes screening 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 22 at Medical Arts Pharmacy, 2010 59th St. W., Bradenton. Information: (800) 713-3301.
• Diabetes screening 1-5 p.m. Jan. 30 at Sweetbay Pharmacy, 6095 Ninth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Information: (800) 713-3301.
• Cholesterol and diabetes 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 30 at Bee Ridge Pharmacy, 4086 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota. Information: (800) 713-3301.
• Diabetes screening 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 31-Feb. 2. at Kmart, 501 North Beneva Road, Sarasota. Information: (800) 713-3301.
Senior Fun Fest
The second annual Senior Fun Fest will be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall, 4800 Highway 301 N., Tampa, on Jan. 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Senior Connection event features more than 200 “Senior Friendly” exhibitors with information on senior services, lifestyles, health and wellness, travel and attractions, to name a few. There will be free health screenings, live entertainment, arts and crafts, free golf swing analysis, and more. Admission and parking are free. Information:: (888) 670-0040 or amora@hsc.usf.edu.
Manatee hospital volunteers
Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., needs volunteers to assist with various support functions throughout the hospital. Information: 745-7287 or visit www.manateememorial.comwww.SrMagazine.com.
Health, fitness event
The Manatee County Central Library will host an action-oriented health and fitness event for all ages, interests and fitness levels called “Get Moving @ the Library” 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 27. Fitness and health professionals and organizations throughout Manatee County will offer more than 24 classes ranging from Latin dance aerobics and yoga to weight loss and diet. There also will be speakers, information sessions, fitness games and quizzes. A complete schedule of classes will be posted at the event. Information: 748-5555, ext 239 or 235.
Children’s mental health workshop
The Sarasota County Early Childhood Mental Health Partnership will present a free workshop for families called “Children’s Mental Health Matters: the ABC’s of Advocacy” 8:30 a.m. Jan. 27 in Room 221 of the Blue Awning Building of the School Board of Sarasota County, 1950 Landings Blvd., Sarasota. Families and caregivers will learn about systems of care for children’s mental health, family advocacy and anti-stigma efforts. The target audience is families or caregivers of students from pre-kindergarten through high school with mental health challenges. Registration is required. Information and registration: 927-9000, ext. 34326, or visit the website at www.sarasota.k12.fl.us/parents.
Health screenings
HealthcheckUSA will hold its annual health screenings at five Bradenton locations 8-11 a.m. weekdays. Jan. 22-Feb. 9. Blood tests costing as low as $55 will screen for glucose for diabetes and cholesterol as well as several dozen other conditions. Other tests are available for PSA, ovarian cancer, and heart events. Call (800) 929-2044 for information and locations. Partial proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity.
Sleep apnea support
A sleep apnea support group is forming this month and will meet at the Manatee County Central Library, 1301 Barcarrota Blvd. The tentative date for the initial meeting is Jan. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Information: Jim Dengel at 721-8296.
Cancer cooking class
The Cancer Project is sponsoring several cancer prevention and survival cooking classes:
• 11:30 a.m. -1 p.m. on Fridays through Feb. 9 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 248 S. Harbour Drive, Holmes Beach. Coming up: Jan. 19, “Planning Healthy Meals”; Jan. 26, “Antioxidants and Phytochemicals”; Feb. 2, “Immune-Boosting Food”; and Feb. 9, “Maintaining a Healthy Weight.” Class arranged through the Anna Maria Island Community Center. Another series of classes begins in March. Registration: 778-1908.
• Noon-1:30 p.m. on Mondays Jan. 22-March 19 (except Feb. 19), YMCA-Bradenton Branch, 3805 59th St. W. Coming up: Jan. 22, “Fueling Up on Low-Fat Foods”; Jan. 29, “Favoring Fiber”; Feb. 5, “Discovering Dairy Alternatives”: Feb. 12, “Replacing Meat”; Feb. 26, “Planning Healthy Meals”; March 5, “Antioxidants and Phytochemicals”; March 12, “Immune-Boosting Foods”; March 19, “Maintaining a Healthy Weight.” Registration: 792-7484, ext. 100.
• 6-7:30 p.m. Jan. 18, “Maintaining a Healthy Weight,” at On A Shoestring, 3326 Cortez Road, Bradenton. Registration: 782-7023.
Information: (202) 244-5038 or visit www.CancerProject.org.
Yoga for Back Pain
Preston Whaley Jr. will teach Yoga for Back Pain workshops at two locations. The workshop will focus on healing poses and exercises designed to relieve back tension and pain, improve circulation and boost the muscular-skeletal support system for the back. No experience necessary.
• Spotted Dog Fitness studio, 5227 Manatee Av. W., Bradenton, 9:30-10:45 a.m. weekly Jan. through Feb. 17. Cost: $90. For Information: 795-5850 or 747-9397.
• Well Body Clinic, 3915 Eighth Ave. W., Bradenton, noon-1:15 p.m. Jan. 19-March 9, $120. Information: 747-7741 or 747-9397.
Senior beach walks
Sarasota County Parks and Recreation will host senior beach walks every Wednesday Jan. 24-March 28 at Siesta Key. There is no charge for this activity. Participants must be 50 years and older. Information: 316-1383.
Stroke screenings
Life Line Screening will host screenings that will help participants reduce the risk of having a stroke at these times, dates and locations:
• St. Bernard Catholic Church 9 a.m. Jan. 18 at 248 S. Harbor Drive, Holmes Beach
Cost: $109 for a complete vascular screening package, including the stroke/cartoid artery or $129 that will also include an osteoporosis screening.
Wellness seminar
Sarasota Medical Center, 5741 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, will host a Wellness Seminar 6:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 28. The seminar combines the power of hypnosis with behavior modification. Participants learn to lose weight without feelings of deprivation or denial in one session. The first 45 minutes is a free orientation. If the participant feels comfortable with the program, they pay a one-time fee of $69. Participants can save $10 by registering online at www.easywillpower.com. No reservations are required.
Hospice counseling classes
TideWell Hospice and Palliative Care, 3355 26th St. W., Bradenton, will host counseling classes at these times and dates. Classes are held Tuesdays 1:30-3 p.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. at the hospice center Jan. 23 and 30; March 6, 13, 20, and 27; May 1, 8, 15, and 22; July 3, 10, 17, and 24.
Groups and individual sessions are facilitated by Hazel S. Hinkel, MSW, LCSW-grief specialist. The groups are open to the public with no charge for these services. Information: 739-8940.
Gentle aerobics
G.T. Bray Park Activity Center, 5504 33rd Ave. Drive W., Bradenton, will host gentle aerobics 8:45-9:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The class features Ann Phillips, who has a master’s degree in gerontology and over 23 years of experience in the fitness industry. The class is for adults 18 and older. Cost: $28 per month. Information: 742-5974.
Weight, fitness classes
Healthy weight loss and fitness education classes will be offered 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Free classes will focus on rheumatoid arthritis. More information available on diabetes, fibromyalgia, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. -Weight loss classes limited to women 18 years and older. For information and reservations: 727-0000.
Car seat checks
Baby and children safety car seat checks will be offered the second Wednesday of every month through May 9:30-11:30 a.m. Registration required. Certified car seat technicians from the AAA and SAFE KIDS coalition will check seat installations at Forty Carrots Family Center, 1500 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Information: 365-7716.
Baby-sitting classes
Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., Bradenton, offers “Safe Sitter” classes for boys and girls ages 11 and older. This class teaches safe and nurturing child care techniques, behavior management skills, and appropriate responses to medical emergencies. Classes are scheduled during school vacation breaks. Information and registration: 746-5111, ext. 8286.
Diabetes programs
The “OutSmart Diabetes” Healthy Lifestyle Education Program offers updated self care education classes. Day and evening classes are held in various locations in Bradenton and Ellenton for diabetes, pre-diabetes or anyone wanting to live a healthier lifestyle. Complimentary blood sugar meter and testing supplies will be given to people with diabetes if needed. Individual home visits are available for people with limitations, for diabetes education, insulin instruction, insulin pump training, and/or blood sugar meter training. Classes are taught by a board certified diabetes educator. Pre-registration required by calling Denise Falsetti, RN, CDE, CPT, at 232-3846.
Blake free seminars
Blake Medical Center, 2020 59th St. W., will offer these free seminars and programs:
• Stroke Support Group, “Suncoast Center for Independent Living: Services and Resources” by Keith Kitchens, executive director, Jan. 22, 2-3:30 p.m. in the Sand Dollar Room. Information/reservations: 798-6220.
• “Lap-Band and Gastric Bypass Surgeries” by Dr. Jose Estigarribia, Jan. 25, 6-7 p.m. in the Dolphin/Pelican Room. Reservations: (888) 359-3552.
• “The Benefits of Lap-Band” by Dr. Jose Erbella, Jan. 30, 6-7 p.m. in the Dolphin/Pelican Room. Reservations: (888) 359-3552.
• Stroke Support Group, “VitalStim Therapy - A New Therapeutic Approach for Swallowing Disorders” by James O’Donnell,, speech-language pathologist, Feb. 26, 2-3:30 p.m. in the Dolphin/Pelican Room. Information/reservations: 798-6220.
For reservations and information (888) 359-3552.
Integrated Healing Arts classes
Integrated Healing Arts, 4216 Cortez Road, Bradenton, will host these free classes:
• Dispel the Myths of Hypnotherapy 6-7 p.m. Jan. 23
• Learn How to Have a Healthy Heart 6-7 p.m. Jan. 25
• What is Chiropractic? 6-7 p.m. Feb. 1
• What is Oriental Medicine? 6-7 p.m. Feb. 6
• What is Anti-Aging Medicine? 6-7 p.m. Feb. 8
• What is Neurotransmitters? 6-7 p.m. Feb. 12
• Suffering from Tendon Injuries? 6-7 p.m. Feb. 15
• Natural Facial Rejuvenation 6-7 p.m. Feb. 20
• What You Can Do About Clogged Arteries 6-7 p.m. Feb. 22
• Dispel the Myths of Hypnotherapy 6-7 p.m. Feb. 27
Information and reservations: 739-2225.
Grief, transitions
Have you suffered a great loss or “loneliness in the midst of a crowd,” accentuated by the holiday season when everybody is having fun except you? Transitions helps you deal with loss and loneliness and find your vibrant self. The Congregational-United Church of Christ, 3700 26th St. W., Bradenton hosts a Transitions Support Group 5 p.m. every Sunday. The support group features trained counselors and provides a safe place for people to deal with traumatic changes in their lives, including abuse, death, addiction, job loss, health and more. Information: 739-7103; (727) 522-3907.
Sarasota weight, smoking program
Sarasota Medical Center, 5741 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota will host this class:
• Smoking Cessation 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jan. 22
The first 45 minutes of each session are a free orientation. If the participant feels comfortable with the program, they pay a one-time fee of $69. Participants can also save $10 by registering online at www.easywillpower.com. No reservations are required. Information: (800) 842-2822 or visit www.easywillpower.com.
Plastic surgery seminar
Dr. Andrea Kreithen will present “Plastic Surgery 2007: New Year’s Resolutions” at 6 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center conference room. Kreithen will discuss new trends in plastic surgery, body contouring, skin care and the recently FDA-approved silicone breast implants. Reservations are requested. For more information and to make a reservation call 907-8174 or visit www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com.
Adult dance classes
“That’s Dancing!” adult classes in tap and jazz will be held beginning in January for 10 weeks and will be taught by director/choreographer Bonnie Gray. Currently, evening dance/modeling classes are held in Sarasota/Northgate on Tuesdays and in Manatee County on Wednesdays. For details, contact Gray at 741-8131 or www.bonniegray.com.
Weight-loss surgery seminars
The Manatee Memorial Surgical Weight Loss Team offers seminars to inform the public about the latest on weight-loss surgeries. The meetings include discussions about gastric bypass and Lap Band surgery. Participants meet at the Manatee Memorial’s Outpatient Services Lobby, 250 Second St. E., Bradenton. Seminars are usually from 6-7 p.m. Information and current dates: 745-7245.
Osteoporosis seminars
The Florida Department of Health, in partnership with Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center Inc., provides osteoporosis education in the area. A curriculum called Families Building Strong Bones was developed to teach adult osteoporosis education. To a schedule a free program for your employees, your civic group, church, or neighborhood association, call 361-6602 at Gulfcoast South AHEC.
New Options Program
Separated? Divorced? Widowed? Have a disabled or unemployed spouse? Need to get a job but have limited skills? If you are 35 years old or older, you may qualify for free career counseling, job skills training and employability services designed to assist you toward employment and financial stability. The program offers help in exploring career-training opportunities to match your interest, needs, and secure financial aid to enroll on job-training programs. Topics of assistance include: financial management, resume building, learning how to interview, job search strategies, job placement and more. Information: 751-7900 ext. 2192.
Low-stress workout
First Congregational United Church of Christ, 1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota, will host low-stress workout classes 5:45-6:45 p.m. on Tuesdays and 11 a.m. on Thursdays. Cost: $7 per class or $25 for a six-class pass. Registration and information: 756-6426.
Ear acupuncture
The East West Health Center will offer a group ear acupuncture session from 10 a.m.-noon on Fridays. Participants will learn and experience the benefits of group ear acupuncture. Appointments are not needed. Cost: $20. Information: 744-9770.
Adult day care
Meals on Wheels Plus Adult Day Center offers an armchair aerobics class twice a week to boost mobility and flexibility for seniors and adults with disabilities. The Adult Day Center also assists clients in order to enable caregivers to continue caring for an impaired family member at home. Specialized care is also available for participants with mid- to late stages of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Information: 748-3001.
Memory screening
The Roskamp Institute is offering free memory screening for adults aged 60 and over on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 2040 Whitfield Ave., Sarasota. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 256-8018 or visit www.rfdn.org.
Homebound seniors gift bags
Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee is in need of assorted items that will be used for holiday gift bags for homebound seniors. Items such as combs, Kleenex, shaving cream, razors, mouthwash, toothpaste, brushes, handkerchiefs, cologne, notepads, pens, hand lotion, trinkets, cards, knee highs, men’s socks and deodorants are suggested. Items can be delivered to 811 23rd Ave. E., Bradenton, or if in bulk quantities, items can be picked up. Information: 747-4655.
Yoga training
Yoga From the Heart, 2010 Pine Terrace, Suite B, Sarasota, will offer a 2007 Teacher Training Program approved by the Yoga Alliance. Yoga From the Heart’s 200-hour program is one of three schools in Sarasota designed for both aspiring instructors and yoga students. The program consists of nine weekend training sessions, and includes weekly classes, workshops, homework and more. Information: 929-9878.
Balance screenings
Body in Balance Physical Therapy, 4426 Fifth St. W., and 701 Manatee Ave. W., Suite 103 in Bradenton, is offering free computerized balance screenings to anyone concerned about their balance, anyone afraid of falling or anyone experiencing dizziness. The screenings are designed to assess potential fall risk and fall prevention. General safety information is available with the goal of decreasing fall potential and avoiding the medical complications associated with falls. Information and reservations: 708-0007.
Reporting elder abuse
West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc., a non-profit corporation, is asking people to report any cases of elderly abuse, neglect or exploitation. The cases should be reported to (800) 96-ABUSE or (800) 962-2873.
Fibromyalgia class
A fibromyalgia class will be offered 6:30-8 p.m. every Wednesday in room 213 at Woodland Baptist Church, 9607 S.R. 70 E., Bradenton. Information: 758-7277.
Adult ballet program
Classical exercise for the mind, body and spirit has been added to the lineup of Dancing Thru the Ages. This adult ballet program offers intermediate class at 10 a.m. on Mondays, introduction class at 9 a.m. on Wednesdays and experienced beginner at 10 a.m. on Saturdays. Cost: $12 for 90 minute classes and $10 for the one-hour class throughout December. The class, taught by Mo Dye, includes a ballet barre workout and floor work for stretching and strengthening which provides the benefits of ballet without having to dance. Ballet clothing not mandatory, and mats optional. Information: Mo Dye at 779-1108, or Kathi at 755-8197.
Allison’s Dance Studio, 26th St. W. and 53rd Ave. W., Bradenton will hold a Saturday Brushup Adult Ballet Class 11:30 a.m. Saturdays starting in January. The class will be for beginners and/or intermediate that can not make the regular week classes. Information: 779-1108.
Elder Helpline
The West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging’s Elder Helpline offers support for the growing numbers of caregivers and their aging parents. The Elder Helpline provides information on programs or services that can meet the needs of the senior or caregiver. Information: (800) 963-5337 or visit www.wcfaaa.org.
Depression support group
“Overcoming Anxiety, Depression and Related Challenges” is a free behavior and mental health support group offered 10-11 a.m. the last Saturday of each month at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, 8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton. The group is offered to meet the growing needs and requests of East county residents who may want or need routine behavior and mental health support. Information: 746-5111.
Parkinson’s support
A Parkinson’s support group meets on the third Monday of each month at Trinity United Methodist Church, 3200 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. Meetings start at 1 p.m. with a social time and continue at 1:30 p.m. with the actual meeting. Information: 746-4415.
Women’s Resource Center
The Women’s Resource Center, 1926 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton offers a wide variety of programs, seminar and classes for women, including the following:
• Women in Transition 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Cost: $2 donation.
• Evaluating Unhealthy Relationships 5:30-7 p.m. on Wednesdays. Cost: No fee.
• Book Discussion 1 p.m. or 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month.
• Power Yoga 5:30 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays. Cost: $8 per class for non members and $5 for member.
• Girls Night Out 5:30-7 p.m. the last Thursday of the month.
For more information about the Women’s Resource Center, located at 1926 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, call 747-6797 or check the Internet at www.wrcmanatee.org.
Cancer classes, support
The Wellness Community, 410 Fourth Ave. E., Bradenton, offers these classes for cancer patients and others:
• Cancer support group, 2-3:30 p.m. Tuesdays, led by licensed psychotherapists
• Free gentle yoga classes for cancer patients, 10:30-noon on Wednesdays
• Free tai chi classes for cancer patients, 10:30-noon on Fridays
• Nutrition and cancer, 10-11 a.m. every last Friday of the month
In Sarasota the Wellness Community offers classes and programs at 3900 Clark Road, Bldg. P-3. For information on both centers and classes: 921-5539.
Volunteers talk to seniors
Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee is looking for volunteers to participate in the free community program called “Telephone Reassurance.” The program gives home-bound seniors who have little to no contact with the outside world an opportunity to talk with a volunteer. During three-minute phone conversations volunteers provide both social contact and learn about possible problems at home in order to alert loved ones. Volunteers can work from their own homes. If you are interested in learning more about this program and would like to sign up as either a client or a volunteer, call 747-4655.
Free diet, fitness seminars
Fit and Firm Fitness Studio, 4216 20th St. W., Bradenton offers free seminars for the public to learn about low glycemic eating, exercise, stress reduction and supplementation every 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Reservations required. Information: 756-8850 or (888) 859-9176.
Hospice services, support
Tidewell Hospice, 4151 37th St. E., Palmetto, offers an array of services to help patients and loved ones going through a terminal illness and the dying process. Hospice provides a grief support group 2 p.m. every Thursday. Tidewell also provides nursing care, home health aides, social workers, and all medication needs. Information: 721-7515.
Smoking cessation program
The Manatee County Health Department, 410 6th Ave. E., Bradenton, offers a smoking cessation program 5-6 p.m. every Wednesday at the Manatee County Health Department in Conference Room A. The program consists of four one-hour sessions. Classes are ongoing with a new session starting every four weeks. Cost: $55, which includes all materials. Registration and information: 726-9977.
Manatee senior program
Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., Bradenton offers the Senior Advantage Program which provides free and discounted services that enhance the health and wellbeing of adults 50 and over, including seminars, health screenings, exercise classes, health fairs, physician referrals, and more. Be sure to ask about the waving of the Part A Medicare deductible for members who are covered by Medicare Part A. Information: 745-7548.
Free exams for women
The Manatee County Health Department offers free breast exams, pap and pelvic examinations, and mammograms to women over 50 who are low-income and do not have health insurance, Medicaid or Medicare. For more information call the department at 748-0747, Ext. 1333, 1461 or 1320.
‘Make No Bones About It’
The Florida Department of Health, in partnership with Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center Inc., provides osteoporosis education in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Participants will learn about preventing osteoporosis, building strong bones, how to identify risk factors and more. Information and to schedule a free Families Building Strong Bones program call 361-6602 or e-mail Ansley Mora at amora@hsc.usf.edu.
Manatee hospital volunteers
Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., needs volunteers to assist with various support functions throughout the hospital. Information: 745-7287 or visit www.manateememorial.com .
Truvine Teen Clinic
Services at the Truvine Teen Health Clinic, 1946 32nd St. in north Sarasota, are available on Tuesdays from 4:30-7:30 p.m. and on Thursdays from 2:30-5:30 p.m. The clinic serves young men and women ages 11 to 19. Health clinic services are free and include pregnancy testing, birth control information, sexually transmitted disease testing, nutrition counseling, diabetes prevention and more. Services are available on a walk-in basis or by appointment. Call the Sarasota County Health Department at (941) 861-2814 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
Free physician referral service
Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 Second St. E., Bradenton, offers a free physician referral service. The service is available to anyone new in town looking for a physician, if needing a specialist or for information on health care. The service is available 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturdays. Call (800) 816-4145.
Massage and skin care
The Florida College of Natural Health Bradenton Campus offers reduced cost massage and skin care treatments on an appointment basis. For information, call 744-1244.
Alzheimer’s care
Daybreak Respite Clubs, Inc. is an organization providing day respite care for people with early to mid-stage dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The center, located within the Manatee Baptist Church, 1501 Seventh Ave. E., Bradenton, is open 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Information: 748-2339.
Companions/veterans
Tarrod Staffing and Homemaker Companions Inc. provides care to veterans or widows of veterans in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Call 755-6700 for information.
Medicare counseling
The Department of Elder Affairs Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) Program provides free Medicare and insurance counseling. Volunteers assist seniors with choosing supplemental and long-term policies, help file a claim or appeal to Medicare, provide prescription benefit information, answer general Medicare/Medicaid coverage questions, report Medicare fraud and more. Call (800) 336-2226, ext. 512.
Source: bradenton.com
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