The interactive educational programs happening in the NRV this week span age groups — and species.
Thursday in Radford: How to manage and prevent high blood pressure
On Thursday, Feb. 19, from 12-1 p.m., Carilion Clinic Community Health and Outreach will host a “Hypertension 101” workshop at the Radford Public Library. The workshop will cover tips and tools for working toward healthier blood pressure numbers. A blood pressure checking station will be available. The workshop will be taught by Melanie Taylor, community health educator of Carilion Clinic. No registration is required. For more information, contact Taylor at mltaylor@carilionclinic.org. The Radford Public Library is located at 30 West Main Street.
Friday in Blacksburg: How to communicate with a loved one living with dementia
On Friday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m., Warm Hearth Village and the Engagement Center for Creative Aging will host “When Words Fail: Communication Strategies for Dementia Caregivers” in the Village Center. Attendees will learn about how communication can change because of dementia and how caregivers can adapt their own communication strategies to help maintain relationships and comfort. The program will be led by Joanna Swift Culligan, a musical therapist and the Director of Virginia Tech’s Engagement Center for Creative Aging. No registration is required. The program will be held in The Village Center at Warm Hearth located at 2387 Warm Hearth Drive in Blacksburg.
Saturday in Radford: How otter fur feels
On Saturday, Feb. 21, at 11:30 a.m.– 12:15 p.m., the New River Trail State Park will host a hands-on “Critters of New River Trail State Park” exhibit at the Radford Public Library. The exhibit will feature pelts and bones of animals that live along the New River including black bears, otters, beavers, red foxes, gray foxes, coyotes, and more. Visitors can touch wildlife skins and skulls as they learn about predator-prey relationships between animals. The exhibit is geared for children, but all ages are welcome. Interpretive Ranger Zoie Elswick of the New River Trail State Park will guide visitors through the experience. No registration is required. The Radford Public Library is located at 30 West Main Street.