By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

One of the great risks for seniors living in their own homes or apartments is the risk of a debilitating fall.

“More than 33 percent of all seniors over the age of 65 will fall this year,” according to Kathy Moravek, manager of the Garden Terrace Apartments at the Hays Good Samaritan Center, 2700 Canal Blvd. “Falls account for 25 percent of all hospital admissions,” she added.

Studies show massage therapy, in addition to reducing aches and pains, will also soothe muscles and joints, strengthen the immune system, promote blood and lymph circulation, improve sleep quality and reduce stress, anxiety and feelings of depression. All of these health improvements can help lessen the likelihood of a fall.

As an outreach project to celebrate The Good Samaritan Society Founder Day, the Hays society is partnering with Fort Hays State University massage therapy students to offer free massages to senior citizens Mon., Oct. 17, on-site at the Good Samaritan Center. Free transportation to and from the Center is available. Refreshments will be served and gifts will be offered to the participants after their massages.

“We would like to enhance the well-being of seniors by improving their ability to live more safety at home,” Moravek said. “Each fall we celebrate the faith, vision and servant hart of ‘Dad’ Hoeger, the founder of The Good Samaritan Society,” she explained.

“This is an amazing opportunity because it’s supporting two needed populations, students and the elderly,” said Ceena Owens, FHSU instructor of health and human performance and director of the massage therapy program.

Founder’s Day is a celebration of the Good Samaritan Society and the work it has accomplished since its establishment on Sept. 29, 1922. The Founder’s Day Service Project program allows the society to give back to the communities that help make their work possible.

“On Founder’s Day, we honor our organization’s rich history,” said Susan Jones, director of Hays Good Samaritan. “We also honor and celebrate our staff members and the people we serve.”

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society is a non-profit organization that owns and operates more than 240 care centers, health care agencies and retirement centers. The society’s mission is to share God’s love by providing shelter and support services to those in need.

To make an appointment for the free service to seniors, call Kathy Moravek at (785) 625-7331.