The Area Agency on Aging District 7 and the Shawnee State University Occupational Therapy Program joined together to provide community education through a series of in-person presentations that took place in several counties throughout the AAA7’s 10-county district including Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross and Scioto Counties.   

Historically, the two organizations have worked together to provide community education through the AAA7’s “Matter of Balance” falls prevention program and livestreams through the AAA7’s Facebook page. This year’s community education provided the opportunity to target some of the specific counties in Ohio that the Ohio Department of Health has recognized as having maintained the highest rates of unintentional fall-related deaths among older adults.  Locally, these include Lawrence, Ross and Vinton Counties. 

The community series focused on the benefits of Occupational Therapy, low impact exercises that can improve strength and mobility, available adaptive equipment, as well as further education on community resources that can help individuals stay in their home and community. The presentation was conducted by graduate students in the Occupational Therapy Program at Shawnee State University. It served as a wonderful way to support students in their education as well as provide the community with important and beneficial information that can support their health and well-being. 

The series recently wrapped up with a final session in Lawrence County, where seniors gathered at the Ironton Senior Center, located at the Park Avenue Apartments, to listen to the presentation and learn more about activities to increase strength and mobility.  The event was sponsored by Third and Center, and lunch was provided by Lawrence County Clerk of Courts Michael Patterson and Lawrence County Common Pleas Court Judge Andrew Ballard. 

Third and Center is an arts-based nonprofit dedicated to sustainably growing communities. The mission of Third and Center is to serve as a conduit for community building by facilitating conversation, connection, and collaboration amongst those desiring to positively impact their community. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with AAA7 and the opportunity to create intergenerational connections and educational opportunities with the students from Shawnee State University for the seniors in our community,” said Amanda Cleary, executive director of Third and Center.  “This collaboration embodies the spirit of learning and growth across generations, enriching the lives of all involved.”