SYBENE -- Senior citizens at the Multi-Purpose Senior Citizen Center got an education Thursday about resources that are available to keep them living happily and independently for as long as possible.

Wilma Fox, Ironton, did not buy any of the items but said it was definitely a good thing to be able to see what is available.

"There are a lot of people I know that may need them that cannot get out of the house," she said. "I would like to be able to recommend things to them."

"Who knows, I might need them myself one day."

Local companies displayed equipment and gadgets including rinseless shampoo-filled shower caps, shoe inserts for diabetics, motorized lift cushions, electric wheel chairs, alert devices in case of emergencies and much more.

Bruce Davis, manager of Ashland Community Medical Equipment Inc., said that although there were not quite as many people as expected, it was worthwhile because people were interested and asked good questions.

"Our purpose is to show there is a variety of products available," he said. "This gives people an opportunity to get an overview.

"We would do it again in a heart beat."

All the demonstrations were free and no one was required to purchase anything.

Norma Lee Fisher, South Point, is a regular at the Sybene Center. She said she needs a cane but forces herself go without one.

"I might need it but I don't want it," she said. "If I can be out with my friends, I forget about hurting so bad."

There were also representatives from different assisted living facilities in the area including River Bend House in Wheelersburg and Hill View in Portsmouth.

Assisted living is not nearly as expensive as many people think, said Marilyn Howard, president of the Lawrence County chapter of AARP.

Overall, the show was a success and they plan to host it again in the future, Howard said.

"People have found out things they were not aware of," she said. "It proved

enlightening for those in attendance, I found out things I didn't know like that we have a licensed assisted living program in Wheelersburg.

"Everyone needs to plan ahead," she said. "The aging person goes through lifestyle changes and we must educate ourselves to handle these changes. You just educate yourself about the options and hope and pray you never have to use it."

The Lawrence County AARP sponsored the educational exhibition. The AARP will host a Health Fair Nov. 7. The doors will open at 10 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. The fair will feature representatives from all the area hospitals.

Last year more than 200 people attended.