Senior expo offers everything from flu shots to electric bikes
GAYLORD — The Northern Michigan Senior Expo returns for its 12th year and attendees will be able receive information on products and services aimed at the senior citizen community in Otsego County.
Jim Driver is the organizer for the expo, which will take place from 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at the Ellison Place at 150 Dale Dr. in Gaylord. There is no admission charge.
"We are excited about this year's expo because of the diversity of vendors. We have never had a vendor like Walmart come in and offer flu shots and vaccines. We will also have vendors offering hearing assessments and real estate experts," said Driver.
Driver said the senior community in the county is active and the Sportsplex will provide information on fitness programs.
"One of the great programs they have is the Silver Sneaker program, which is exclusive to seniors," Driver said.
He added that there will be experts in attendance to field questions about computers, smartphones and other technology products.
Driver said a vendor will also be available to discuss electric bikes.
"This the first time we will have an e-bike representative, which is very popular among the senior population. They will have some bikes there that people can try out," Driver said.
The senior population is growing in the county, noted Driver.
"One reasons why seniors like Gaylord and Northern Michigan is the variety of activities we provide whether it's outdoor activities, golf and snowmobiling and skiing in the winter. It's a nice place to retire and live up here," said Driver.
The idea behind the expo is to provide a one-stop place where seniors can ask questions about a variety of products and services from the 75 vendors in attendance.
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"If they have questions on assisted living facilities, legal questions or financial matters, a representative in that field will be there to discuss those topics. It's a one-stop shop for people to come in and enjoy themselves for a couple of hours, get a bite to eat and mingle with others," Driver said.
Major sponsors for the event include Alpine Cardiology, Comfort Keepers, Great Rooms, Humana and the Porches.
— Contact Paul Welitzkin at pwelitzkin@gaylordheraldtimes.com.
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Northern Michigan Senior Expo offers everything from flu shots to electric bikes
