It’s the beginning of Autumn, so it must also be time for the 9th annual
Falls Prevention Awareness Day on September 22, 2017.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control),
“Every second of every day in the United States an older adult falls, making falls
the number one cause of injuries and deaths from injury among older Americans”,
And,
“Older adult falls are increasing and, sadly, often herald the end of independence,”
With such daunting information, the NCOA (National Council on Aging) has designated the first day of Fall each year as Falls Prevention Awareness Day to focus on this issue, and offer a number of resources and tips on their website for keeping older citizens active and healthy.
Mayo Clinic also offers the following tips on this subject:
- Make an appointment with your doctor – discuss your risk for falls and any medications you are taking that could increase that risk.
- Keep moving – a sensible exercise program can increase strength, balance, coordination and flexibility, reducing risk for falls.
- Wear sensible shoes – high heels, floppy or ill fitting footwear, and slippery soles can all increase the risk for a fall.
- Remove home hazards -identify and try to eliminate such hazards as loose rugs, piles of paper, slippery spots.
- Light your living spaces – make sure you have an easy path to the light switch, and keep a flashlight accessible in case of power outage.
- Use assistive devices – especially when getting in/out of the tub and on stairwells.
Wishing all a safe and healthy season – from Rosen & Spears.
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Rosen & Spears is a plaintiff law firm which seeks to protect the rights of healthcare consumers and their loved ones through medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, financial abuse of seniors, and other types of claims. For more information, please contact us.
