Friends taking care of friends. Anna Raphael is seen checking Flo Donoghue’s blood pressure. Didem Aytok and Abigail LaBonte from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences helped out.

On Thursday, October 25, the Council on Aging hosted over 30 local organizations for its 2012 Health Fair.

The popular event featured many highlights, including a free demonstration of simple strengthening exercises and also extensive outreach from the nationally lauded, research-based healthy living program, Fit 4 Life.

Other offerings that the more than 150 attendees enjoyed included health screenings from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and Cambridge Health Alliance, flu vaccines from the Somerville Health Department, nutrition information and healthy food samples from Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods, alternative medicine offerings including massage, chiropractic care, and acupuncture, and accurate and helpful information about insurance options.

Dr. Ann Fabiny, Chief of Geriatrics for Cambridge Health Alliance, rounded out the day’s events as the keynote speaker.

The Council on Aging wishes to thank the event sponsors Commonwealth Care Alliance, Senior Whole Health, LLC, and Tufts Health Plan Medicare Preferred. “This fair is an extraordinary example of the good things that can happen when fruitful collaboration occurs,” says Cindy Hickey, COA Executive Director. “City agencies, home care providers, and area merchants all worked together, and our two interns from Simmons College of Social Work provided essential support and assistance. I am already looking forward to next year’s fair on October 24.”