Senior Health Fair Offers Wellness Tips, Screenings In Ocean County

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The Ocean County Health Department is inviting seniors across the county to the 2024 Senior Health Fair on Monday, April 8.

The special health and wellness event includes free disease screenings, Narcan distribution, vaccine clinic services, diabetes education, and so much more.

The fair is set for 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the health department, 175 Sunset Ave., Toms River.

"The Senior Health Fair is a fantastic health event for the seniors in Ocean County," said Gary Quinn, deputy director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners and liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. "We would like to encourage all our seniors to bring their friends and take part in this one-stop-shop opportunity where individuals can receive a variety of important health checks and services under one roof in one day — and most services are provided at no cost."

"The fair is just one of a series of health and wellness events that we provide in an effort to continue meeting the critical needs of the growing and diverse population we have here in Ocean County," said Daniel E. Regenye, the county's public health coordinator. "With more than 200,000 seniors in Ocean County it’s imperative we offer these types of free health services and resources that otherwise may not be available to them or perhaps haven’t been made a priority."

Seniors and older adults are invited to come out for the free screenings and additional services provided by the Ocean County Health Department:

• Chronic Disease Screenings
• Diabetes Education
• Hepatitis (HCV) Testing
• General Health Education and Nutrition
• Narcan Distribution
• Community Referrals
• Immunizations for Flu, Pneumonia, COVID, TDAP and Shingles (* Insurance information collected for vaccination billing)

A special treat at the 2024 Senior Health Fair includes showcasing several cats and dogs that are available for adoption from the Ocean County Animal Facilities. People who may be considering a companion pet will have an opportunity to visit — or see pictures — of some of our adorable and loving animals in need of permanent loving homes.

"A pet can be such a benefit for an older adult that can care for a cat or dog," Regenye said. "They give not only companionship and unconditional love but can also provide health benefits such as lower blood pressure, reduced stress and anxiety, better cognitive function and improve fitness."