The new Senior Plus program at Sampson Regional Medical Center is a fun way to get seniors involved in community activities, while serving as a resource for those aged 60 and older.
According to Kristy Bland and Jill Cairney, both marketing coordinators for the new program, the new initiative is a way for seniors to stay healthy, be informed and have fun.
“Senior Plus is a free program that supports and promotes a healthy way of living for our senior adult population,” Bland said. “Through this program, we will offer membership benefits, such as free social events, health education seminars and exclusive discounts at local businesses.”
While the new program is only in the beginning stages, both Bland and Cairney say the hospital is working to spread the word about the pros of joining such a program in a small town.
“The benefits will continue to grow as the program grows,” Bland added. “We want to bring in different presenters from the community, who can share their knowledge and expertise with seniors.”
The official kick-off for the new program will be held Jan. 20 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Center for Health and Wellness classroom. The floating event, according to Bland, is a great opportunity for seniors to come out and learn what services are available and register for their membership to the program.
Members of the Senior Plus program will receive a Senior+ membership card when they enroll in the program, which will be used to receive discounts at participating partners in the community.
“The objective of the program is to be a resource to our 60 plus senior population by combining special hospital services with those offered by our community partners,” Bland said.
According to Cairney, Sampson County has an estimated senior population of 9,000.
“The program is a great way for the hospital to reach seniors in the community and provide them with educational opportunities,” Bland added. “Sampson Regional and the surrounding community has a lot to offer to our seniors. Seniors feel they must drive out of town for certain services, but that just isn’t the case.”
Members will also receive a bimonthly e-newsletter with a calendar full of events for them to participate in. The newsletter will include educational seminars, social outings, healthy tips and recipes, and information about discounted programs.
“Hopefully the participating seniors will learn more information about things that pertain to their health issues,” Cairney shared.
Senior Plus offers members a wide range of benefits and savings, invitations to special events, and valuable health information through seminars and publications designed with senior interest in mind. Members will have the opportunity to meet other seniors who are proactive about their health and well-being, and have a chance to share valuable information that may help someone they meet.
“Senior Plus is another source of education as an extension to seniors primary care physicians,” Cairney said.
SRMC is currently seeking businesses interested in becoming a community partner. For anyone interested in more information about the program or becoming a partner, contact Bland or Cairney at 910-592-4228 or visit the hospital’s website at www.SampsonRMC.org/SeniorPlus.