Your body often sends subtle signals — from joint stiffness and muscle strain to shifts in balance, energy, or digestive health. Learn how to recognize early warning signs, make informed health decisions, and take proactive steps toward lasting independence and well-being.
Week 1. More Than Just Heartburn: Understanding and Managing Reflux
That burning feeling in your chest isn’t always just heartburn—it could be a sign of chronic reflux, also known as GERD. Learn what causes reflux, how to manage symptoms, and when it might be time to explore advanced treatments.
Presenter: Shawn Liechty, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery, as well as compassionate care. He has won awards for teaching and research, including the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
Week 2. Not Just a Bulge: What You Should Know About Hernias
Hernias are more common than you think, and they don’t always come with obvious symptoms. Learn what to watch for, when to seek care, and how treatment can help you get back to feeling like yourself.
Presenter: Adam Petchers, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon who specializes in robotic, bariatric, and hernia surgery. He stays updated on medical advances and collaborates with patients to achieve health goals.
Week 3. Precision in Practice: The Future of Robotics in Surgery
Discover how robotic technology enhances surgeries with greater precision, personalized planning, and faster recovery to help you stay active and independent.
Presenter: Brian R. Binetti, MD, is a board-certified minimally invasive surgeon specializing in bariatric, metabolic, and robotic surgery, emphasizing patient care. Dr. Binetti received the Surgeon of Excellence in Robotic Surgery.
Week 4. Redefining Health Goals As We Age
Shifting the focus from “fixing” to “thriving.” Discover how to reframe wellness around what brings purpose, mobility, independence, and fulfillment.
Presenter: Precious Ofodile, MD, is a family medicine physician and Geriatric Fellow for Northern Dutchess Hospital.
Week 5. Move Well, Live Well: Strategies for Strength, Balance and Everyday Independence
Learn how physical and occupational therapy work together to help you stay strong, steady and self-reliant. This session covers ways to improve balance, prevent falls, and adapt daily tasks to stay independent.
Presenters: Hannah Landon, MS, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist at Northern Dutchess Hospital.
Catherine Panadero, DPT, MS, is a physical therapist at Northern Dutchess Hospital.
Week 6. Staying Safe Behind the Wheel
Do you feel confident driving today as you did years ago? Learn helpful guidance and practical tips to support your comfort and awareness behind the wheel.
Presenter: Kim Wranovics, MS, OTR/L, DRP, is an occupational therapist and driver rehabilitation specialist at Northern Dutchess Hospital. In 2007, she graduated from Sage Graduate Schools in Troy, NY, with a Master’s degree in occupational therapy.