Kristin Bogdonas
Host, "Wellness Wake Up Call"Kristin Bogdonas began employment with University of Illinois Extension in August 2013 and serves Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark counties in her role as nutrition & wellness educator. Bogdonas provides research-based programs and resources to diverse audiences via experiential, interactive programming as well as web-based platforms and social media outlets. She strives to inspire healthy lifestyles in others so people can live their best lives.
She is focused on chronic disease prevention and management, food preservation, food safety, and fostering partnerships to create a culture of wellness where people live, learn, work, and play. She also mentors students and provides hands-on opportunities in community nutrition education.
Bogdonas earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University with a concentration in nutrition and dietetics. She then went on to complete her Master of Public Health degree from Southern Illinois University. She has certifications to teach Navigating Difference, Trauma Informed Care, Fit & Strong, and ServSafe for certified food protection managers.
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This week, learn why your pharmacist can be an important partner in safely managing your medications. Discover how preparing a complete medication list, asking questions, discussing possible side effects and interactions, and building a relationship with your pharmacist can help you better understand your medications and feel more confident managing your health. -
This week, learn how to take a more active role in conversations with your healthcare providers. Discover simple ways to prepare for appointments, ask questions, communicate concerns, and make sure you understand your care plan before you leave. Good healthcare communication starts with making sure your voice is heard. -
This week, learn how to separate fact from fiction when searching for health information online. From Extension and professional health organizations to social media and artificial intelligence, discover what to look for when evaluating digital health information and why checking the original source matters. -
This week, kick off Health Literacy Month by learning how finding, understanding, and using reliable health information can help you make more informed decisions. Discover simple ways to strengthen your health literacy, from asking questions during healthcare visits to choosing trustworthy sources and speaking up when you need information explained more clearly. -
This week, focus on the everyday habits that can help you feel your best at any age. Discover how movement, nutritious foods, a positive mindset, meaningful relationships, mental stimulation, and preventive care can support your physical and emotional well-being as you grow older. -
This week, explore why staying socially connected is an important part of healthy aging. Learn simple ways to strengthen existing relationships, meet new people, and create meaningful connections through activities, volunteering, hobbies, and time with family and friends. -
This week, discover five simple ways to care for aging skin, including using sunscreen, staying hydrated, choosing gentle cleansers and moisturizers, and incorporating antioxidants. Plus, learn how everyday habits can help keep your skin healthy as you age. -
This week, learn simple ways to protect your back and support mobility as you age. From strengthening your core and improving posture to taking movement breaks and practicing safer lifting habits, small changes can help keep your spine healthy and support an active, independent lifestyle. -
Healthy vision plays an important role in a child’s learning and development. Explore five simple ways to protect children’s eye health, from regular vision screenings and balanced nutrition to limiting screen time, getting enough sleep, and wearing sunglasses. -
Hours spent looking at computers, phones, and other devices can take a toll on your eyes. Learn practical ways to reduce digital eye strain, including the 20-20-20 method, screen adjustments, better posture, and regular breaks.
