Action for Aging takes over park

The silver generation converged by the thousands on Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to participate in the annual Age in Action event, put on by the New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA).
This year about 10,000 senior citizens, from all over the city, celebrated the festival’s theme “Going Green” on Thursday, May 8. A variety of environmentally friendly programs for seniors included new gardening techniques, stress reduction, and jewelry making techniques were also part of the festivities.
Among the liveliest events was the dance competition. All different types of dancing, including ballroom and disco, were judged and trophies were awarded for first through third place.
Frank McCrea, of the DFTA, hosted the dance competition. “This day is about senior heritage and the dance competition is one of the premiere events because it is rewarding in that it gives senior citizens energy and helps them feel younger by being active,” said McCrea.
DFTA officials also placed an emphasis on the health of the city’s elderly. Free screenings for stroke and blood pressure were offered by St. John’s Queens Hospital. Many organizations participated including the Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the New York City Department of Sanitation. All of them, including St. John’s were handing out education information.
Educating seniors was another goal of the Age in Action event. Edison Best, Director of the Social Security Administration’s New York Region Area II division was trying to inform seniors of the new Extra Help program. “This program can save seniors up to $3,600 on drug costs and they must be on Medicare when they sign up,” said Best. He went on to say that he urged all seniors to get involved.
Along with health and financial advice, attendees were also encouraged to sharpen their computer skills. A technology center was set up and staff were directed to assist seniors with learning how to log onto the Internet, search for health related information, and access email.
HealthPartners, IPA, Secure Horizons & Evercare, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, HIP, Wellcare of New York, and Touchstone Health sponsored Age in Action.