Health Fair Field Trip
Written and Compiled by Anaida Singh, Adriana Kong and Gabrielle Alexander, Grade 12
On Wednesday, April 22nd, Mr. Pickard’s Exercise Science class and Miss Miller’s Health Science class attended TTARP’s Health Seminar at the Radisson Hotel. TTARP (Trinidad and Tobago Association for Responsible Persons) is a group that persons over the age of 50 can join. Students were able to walk around and view many booths.
In addition, some students were able to get their blood pressure checked, while others took an eye exam. Students also had the opportunity to sit in and listen to various speakers at the seminar. These speakers included Ms. Theresa Pierre, a dietician, and Dr. James Bratt, a geriatric psychiatrist.
Ms. Pierre highlighted the increased importance of healthy eating as persons grow older. She elaborated that persons should pay attention to their portion sizes as well as monitor the amount of sugar they consumed in one sitting and subsequently one day. She went on to say that older adults should remember to consume an adequate amount of water every day. On the other hand, Dr. Bratt discussed dementia, Alzheimer’s, and similar diseases which can affect an older population. He stressed the importance of a healthy diet and socialization for aging adults. In addition, he was an advocate for games that challenged your brain.
Dr. Bratt said that hese practices (following a healthy diet, staying active, socializing, and challenging your brain) help prevent dementia. In conclusion, the students learnt a lot and were extremely appreciative of having the opportunity to attend this seminar.
