Interfaith Caregivers’ Osteoporosis Prevention Program Lauded

HAMILTON, N.J. - June 13, 2014 - PRLog -- Celebrating its 20^th year of providing free caregiving services to homebound elderly and people with disabilities, Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County (ICGMC) last month hosted a festive community celebration of National Older Americans Month and National Osteoporosis Awareness Month at the Hamilton Township Library. Close to 100 people were in attendance as the nonprofit recognized community members who support and participate in its successful Project Healthy Bones (PBH) program -- which has grown from 15 to 76 participants in less than three years.

Maryann Marian, a State Coordinator at the Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services, recognized ICGMC’s Project Healthy Bones as one of the “best, most organized, and only bi-lingual PHB program in the state” and presented a proclamation signed by Governor Chris Christie to ICGMC Executive Director Jane Latini. Dr. Sally Fullman, an advocate for bone health with the National Osteoporosis Foundation, served as guest speaker, emphasizing the importance of bone health and highlighting various safety products and techniques for seniors.

“Project Healthy Bones is supported by the Mercer County Office on Aging and is a natural extension of ICGMC’s efforts to help seniors age in place safely, independently and with dignity in their own homes,” explains Latini. “Socialization, exercise and nutrition are crucial to the well-being and independence of older adults, and our staff and volunteers promote the benefits of all of these things, especially as they relate to osteoporosis. Best of all is that the program is fun, free and geared to people of all abilities – and participants love coming! Our Project Healthy Bones program is more than exercise and wellness – it is where seniors can feel loved and spiritually renewed!”

ICGMC currently offers Project Health Bones classes at the Hamilton Township Library in Hamilton, NJ, and St. Mary’s Cathedral in Trenton, NJ. In addition to helpful education and guest speakers, the 24-week program features exercises that target the body’s larger muscle groups, which are designed to improve posture, strength, balance and flexibility – which can be crucial to the health and longevity of seniors. For further information, please e-mail lauri@icgmc.org or call the ICGMC office at 609-393-9922.

About Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County

ICGMC relies on more than 300 dedicated volunteers from 28 interdenominational congregations throughout Mercer County, as well as individual, corporate, foundation and government support. Its mission is to promote the independence and dignity of homebound elderly and people with disabilities by matching them with caring volunteers who assist with the tasks of everyday life. Volunteers are professionally screened and trained, and all services are provided without proselytization or regard to religious affiliation. ICGMC is celebrating its volunteers and its 20 years of service to the community with special events and programs throughout 2014. To request services, volunteer, or support Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County, visit www.icgmc.org or call 609-393-9922.