"YOUR AGING BELLY" IS THE TOPIC OF A FREE "LUNCH & LEARN" WELLNESS LECTURE AT THE WATERMARK AT LOGAN SQUARE DECEMBER 4

Family physician Dr. Ngozi N. Ude M.D., a resident of Chestnut Hill, is helping to lead a FREE Lunch & Learn discussion on maturing health on Tuesday, December 4 at 11:30 a.m. at The Watermark at Logan Square in Center City. The presentation addresses what’s happening inside “Your Aging Belly.” Dr. Ude and Dr. Howard Brooks D.O. from University Primary Care at Hahnemann will cover a broad range of topics associated with the mature digestive system including frequently-asked-questions about gastro-intestinal distress, constipation and malnutrition. There is limited seating for these special talks and advance reservations are required for admission. 

The physicians will talk about common symptoms that are often mentioned as a simple comment. Dr. Ude explains, “As we see patients, we often hear ‘Oh, by the way” about issues we know should be taken more seriously,” such as …

• “I haven’t been eating well”

• “I seem to need more salt, because nothing tastes right anymore.”
• “I’m irregular. But isn’t everybody?”

Dr. Brooks encourages patients to contact their doctors more frequently. He said, “Patients often suffer unnecessary discomfort because they feel they should exhaust all of the options in over-the-counter remedies before they call their doctor. What’s most concerning to physicians is that, by self-medicating for prolonged periods, patients may be taking a serious risk.  Angina can be mistaken for heartburn. Chronic acid reflux, if not healed properly, can actually change the cells and lead to cancer. Loss of appetite isn’t dieting and malnutrition is a serious health matter. Our presentation will talk about these and other recognizable issues that many people try to live with, and probably shouldn’t.”

Dr. Ude adds: “It always comes down to what’s normal for you. However, there’s a limit. When patients believe that daily discomfort is normal --- like when they’re using Maalox after every meal --- that’s an indication of a bigger problem and physicians want to catch that as early as possible. You’re not ‘bothering’ your doctor to make an appointment to address issues like low-grade cramping, weight loss or even frequent belching.”

Jennifer Tapner RN, Executive Director of The Watermark at Logan Square, is delighted to offer the public the opportunity to access wellness information in partnership with University Primary Care at Hahnemann, which has a new family medicine practice right on the ground floor of The Watermark near the Parkway. “These are not only very knowledgeable doctors, but also they’re exceptionally approachable,” said Tapner. “Since a doctor’s time is so valuable, this is a relaxed opportunity to tap their wisdom on very important topics that concern every single individual as they mature. We’re proud to be able to offer this wonderful series of talks to seniors in our area.”

Seating is limited and advance registration is required. This free special medical series will be accompanied by a light buffet lunch. The Watermark at Logan Square is located just off the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Two Franklin Town Boulevard in Philadelphia. To attend or learn more, please call The Watermark at 215-240-8915.

Located close to cultural attractions in Center City Philadelphia, The Watermark at Logan Square tailors programs to meet and exceed the expectations of each resident. Living at The Watermark at Logan Square comes with abundant choices and opportunities and is the only community in the Delaware Valley to earn the 2012 “Caring Star” Five-Star Rating based on consumer reviews in Caring.com. Comprised of Independent and Personal Care apartments, a Skilled Nursing Center, and a Memory Care Center, The Watermark at Logan Square offers a full continuum of care in a luxurious, maintenance-free setting. The Watermark at Logan Square has also been awarded the top Five-Star Quality Rating in a federal comparison of Medicare-certified nursing homes and skilled nursing centers. The Watermark at Logan Square is located at Two Franklin Town Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19103. For more information, call 215-240-8915 or visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/logansquare

Watermark Retirement Communities has provided successful, progressive and engaging senior housing across the country for more than 20 years and is committed to creating extraordinary communities where people thrive. For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com