More than 30 health providers and community organizations came together Tuesday morning at Orland Township’s Senior Health Fair, where hundreds of older residents received free screenings, expert advice, and a warm reminder that they haven’t been forgotten.
The event, hosted at the Orland Township office at 14807 S. Ravinia Ave. in Orland Park, marked a full-scale return of the fair following the pandemic. Timed with Older Americans Month, the fair offered attendees an easy, welcoming way to access essential services.
“This fair provides direct, no-cost access to screenings and services, empowering residents to take proactive steps toward better health and well-being,” said Alexandria Shipyor, public relations coordinator for Orland Township. “Many seniors face barriers to care, whether due to transportation, cost, or lack of awareness. This event helps bridge those gaps.”
Dozens of local vendors staffed booths throughout the township building, offering everything from hearing tests to transportation resources. Walmart, the event’s lead sponsor, conducted cholesterol and total lipid profile testing, as well as blood pressure checks. The Orland Park Lions Club handled hearing screenings.
Representatives from Humana, United Health Care, and AETNA were on hand to answer insurance questions. Others, including the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Orland Fire District, and Orland Police Department, shared information on safety and public health. Seniors browsed services from Pathlights, Right at Home, and Vitas Healthcare, while chatting with specialists in fitness, dental care, mental health and vision support.
Also participating were Chicago Lighthouse, Illumident Inc., Marion Village, Orland Park Fitness Center, Orland Township Senior Services, and Orland Township S.H.I.P. Attendees could learn about home assistance programs, estate planning, caregiver services, and organ donation through groups like Oasis for the Visually Impaired & Blind, Gift of Hope, and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.
Realty, nutrition, and wellness professionals rounded out the mix. Vendors such as Ventimiglia Realty Team – Keller Williams Preferred, We Can Insurance Solutions, The Thriving You, PLLC, and Building Healthy Communities offered materials and answered questions one-on-one.
“The Senior Health Fair is more than just a day of screenings and resources—it’s a reflection of our township’s dedication to the well-being of our older residents,” said Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady. “After everything our community has endured in recent years, it’s heartening to see our seniors come together, access vital services, and feel supported.”
In addition to screenings, attendees received wellness checks, informational brochures, raffle entries, and complimentary refreshments and lunch provided by Humana and Right at Home. The event, organizers said, was as much about connection as it was about care.
“Bringing back the Senior Health Fair post-pandemic is a symbol of resilience and renewal,” Shipyor said. “The pandemic highlighted how critical accessible healthcare is—especially for seniors. Hosting this event again reaffirms our commitment to community health and helps reconnect residents with trusted services.”
Organizers encouraged not only seniors but their caregivers and families to attend.
“Whether it was someone’s first time or their fifth, the fair was a welcoming, informative, and beneficial experience,” Shipyor said. “It’s a chance to take charge of your health in a supportive, community-focused environment.”
