Schaumburg Library offers programs for your health

Health improvement is always one of the top New Year's resolutions. From joining a gym to cutting back on sugar to making that overdue checkup appointment, we start the year with great intentions.

But as we all know, those intentions have a way of fading into oblivion. Make 2019 the year you achieve your health goals with help from the Schaumburg Township District Library.

We strive to help you improve your wellness year-round with programs and classes presented by health experts in a variety of fields. Some programs take place at the Central Library in Schaumburg, while others are held at the Hoffman Estates or Hanover Park branch libraries.

Let's begin with the enigma that is health insurance. If you could use help figuring out the pros and cons of various health insurance products and what's best for you and your family, come to "Demystifying Health Insurance" from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, in the Rasmussen North Room on the Central Library's second floor. Karen McCormack of McCormack Consulting Group, Inc. will explain what is available regarding individual, group and Medicare insurance.

Is it time to check your levels? "Cholesterol and Blood Pressure Screenings" will be offered from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Hoffman Estates Branch, and from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, at the Hanover Park Branch. Amita Health registered nurses will conduct the screenings. Register with Amita at (855) 692-6482.

For those who have questions or concerns about the use of marijuana for health issues, the library will hold "Medical Cannabis" from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, at the Hoffman Estates Branch Library.

Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and share concerns while learning why an increasing number of states are providing access to medical cannabis. Kirsten Velasco, Education Outreach manager with The Medical Cannabis Community, will explain the Illinois Medical Cannabis Program.

"Movement and Injury Screenings" will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, in the Rasmussen South Room of the Central Library, and from 2-4 p.m. Monday, March 25, at the Hoffman Estates Branch Library. To register, call the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute at (847) 534-8088. A licensed physical therapist will conduct assessments for problem areas and advise on how best to address them.

If the time has come to move from group health insurance to Medicare, come to "Medicare Made Clear" from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, at the Hanover Park Branch Library. Insurance Broker Donna Spigolon will explain your options, estimated costs and timelines to enroll in Medicare Supplements, Part D Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans.

Her presentation will also help you understand your guarantee issue periods, how to avoid the Part D Drug Penalty, and timelines for planning.

Learning proper posture and lifting techniques can help you avoid the risk of pain and injury. A physical therapist will present "Posture, Lifting and Desk Ergonomics" from 3-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, in the Rasmussen North Room of the Central Library.

All of these programs are free, but do require registration. Unless otherwise specified, call (847) 923-3347 or register in person at the Adult Information Desk at any library location.

Registration also takes place online at www.SchaumburgLibrary.org, where you can find a full listing of upcoming library programs, classes and special events.