NEWPORT BEACH : Senior Center Plans Health Screenings

A nonprofit center for senior citizens will have a health fair this weekend that is designed to encourage older people to take advantage of regular, preventive medical checks.

“We want this to be a comfortable environment for them,” said Laurell Detweiler, program coordinator for the Oasis Senior Center. “We want (seniors) to become more aware of their health.”

The Health Fair Expo will provide participants with free screenings for blood pressure, dermatology, lungs, hearing and vision. Free tetanus shots will also be offered.

For $25, seniors can receive a blood test that checks 28 different chemistries, including cholesterol, sugar and sodium levels. Prostate cancer screenings for men will be offered for $50.

Detweiler stressed that the medical workers at the fair will not diagnose conditions based on screenings. But they will suggest that seniors get medical attention if tests reveal any abnormalities.

“If a test is out of a normal range, we will suggest they get it checked,” Detweiler said. “If they have a blemish on their skin, we will tell them they need to get it checked.”

The fair will take place Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Oasis Senior Center at 5th and Narcissus avenues in Corona del Mar. The center is a nonprofit group.

Information: (714) 644-3244.