The Union County Sheriff’s Office and the UCSO Foundation, Inc. on Tuesday sponsored the 29th Annual Senior Fraud Awareness Luncheon at the Union County Agricultural Center.

This popular annual event is dedicated to helping seniors recognize the latest fraud and scam trends while providing valuable safety information, fellowship, and helpful community resources.

Here is some of the information that was shared:

Upcoming Events for Adults at the Union County Library

How to Spot, Avoid and Report Identity Theft

Stay Steady, Stay Active: Small Steps That Make a Difference

Staying active can make everyday tasks easier, whether you want to carry groceries, get up from a chair, work in the yard, or take a walk with a friend. You do not have to begin with a long workout. A few minutes of movement is a good place to start.

Give your legs a little work each day. Walking, dancing, gardening, and water exercise can all help you stay active. If a long walk sounds daunting, try five or ten minutes at a comfortable pace and build from there.

Practice balance where you can hold on. Stand beside a sturdy counter or chair that will not slide. While holding on, slowly raise your heels, then lower them. You can also raise your toes while keeping your heels on the floor. Move slowly and keep a hand on the support whenever you need it.

Build strength for daily life. Sit in a sturdy chair and practice standing up, then sitting down slowly. Use the armrests if you need them. Start with a number of repetitions that feels manageable. Stronger leg muscles can help with walking, stairs, and getting out of a chair.

For older adults, the general goal is 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, plus muscle-strengthening activity on at least two days and activities that improve balance. That is a goal to work toward, not a requirement for getting started. Any amount of activity is better than none.

Choose something you enjoy and can do safely. A short walk with a neighbor or a few minutes of movement at home may be easier to keep up than an ambitious routine.

If you have fallen recently, feel unsteady, or have a health condition that affects exercise, ask your health care provider which activities are right for you. Stop exercising if you feel dizzy or have pain. Balance practice should always be done near a sturdy support.

The best first step is a small one you can take today.