Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2011
The Ohio Departments of Aging and Health join the Ohio Older Adult Falls Prevention Coalition to observe Friday, Sept. 23 as Falls Prevention Awareness Day in Ohio and encourage all Ohioans to use the autumn season to educate themselves and their loved ones about the risk of falls and fall-related injuries that increases as we age. Aging and public health agencies and advocates all over the state are joining in to spread the word that many falls are preventable through five easy steps.
1. Increase your physical activity. Simple exercise, like walking or swimming at least 15 minutes a day can help build muscle strength and improve balance, which can prevent falls. Exercise programs like Tai Chi that increase strength and improve balance are especially good.
2. See your eye doctor once each year. Age-related eye diseases, such as cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, can increase the risk of falling. Early detection is key to minimizing the effects of these conditions.
3. Review your medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the medicines you are taking and whether they may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Discuss things you can do to ensure you are taking your medicines safely.
4. Remove environmental hazards. Look around the house for anything that could increase the risk of falls, including poor lighting, loose rugs, slippery floors and unsteady furniture. Remove or modify these hazards.
5. Think, plan and slow down. Many falls are caused by hurrying. Slow down and think through the task you are performing. Be mindful of possible falls risks and act accordingly.
Contact your area agency on aging or local health district office for help and resources to prevent falls.
Falls Prevention Awareness Day Toolkit
The Ohio Departments of Aging and Health have assembled a toolkit, including a customizable local news release, to help increase public awareness about how to prevent and reduce falls among older adults.
Finer With Age: Preventing Falls
Watch a special falls prevention episode of Finer With Age, produced by the Ohio Department of Aging, featuring Ted Wymyslo, M.D. Director, Ohio Department of Health.
For More Information on Preventing Falls
Ohio Department of Health - Falls Among Older Adults Homepage
Center for Healthy Aging - Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2011 Tools and Resources
Fall Prevention Center of Excellence - Fall Prevention Week Information
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Falls Among Older Adults
Last Reviewed 9/9/11
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