Over 200 senior citizens in Washington, D.C., recently learned that it's never too late to attend medical school. The four-session lecture series addressed medical issues of particular concern to seniors.
The school featured four scientists from National Institution of Health and one from Howard University who assumed the role of professors while community members became students during the Wednesday-morning series, which ran 3 weeks.
Students gained information on basic science as well as practical information that addressed their immediate health concerns.
First topic was Nutrition where a registered nutrition expert told the audience that good nutrition is important for health at any age. In many cases, only a few dietary changes are needed. Changing eating habits is something we've done all our lives and its not restricting but trying something new. Discussed were various nutrition topics such as salt, fat, carbohydrates, fluids, vitamins and fiber.
Second topic was depression and drug abuse, where alcoholism was discussed.
Next topic was hypertension and coronary artery disease. Big risk factors for heart disease can be controlled. These include smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and lack of physical activity. Studies show only 20% of people with high blood pressure have been adequately treated.
About 130 people attended all four weeks to earn a Mini-Med School "diploma," which they received at the final session, graduation day.