November is Fall Prevention Month
Huron County, ON – Light up your living space. Wear sensible shoes. Remove home hazards. These are just a few of the tips that can help older adults keep shining in their golden years.
In 2017 for Huron and Perth counties, 1,903 seniors went to the emergency department from being injured by a fall. Of those emergency department visits, 450 involved injuries were so severe that the senior was hospitalized. Many more falls and close calls happen.
“You don’t have to wait until you have an injury to talk to your healthcare provider about a fall,” says Laura Edgar, Public Health Promoter with the Huron County Health Unit. “If you experience dizziness or if you fall and aren’t hurt, please tell your healthcare provider. There are likely changes you can make together that will keep you on your feet.”
Sixty per cent of falls amongst older adults happen in the home. Making changes to your home is a great place to start. “Increase the light, decrease the stuff” says Edgar. “We need much more light to see as we get older – invest in night lights. Having a clear path is so important: get rid of clutter, secure mats with double sided tape or get rid of them.”
The Huron-Perth Stepping Out Safely Committee is a group of service providers who are also taking action to prevent falls. The group hosted a recent fall prevention symposium in Mitchell. “The tagline for Fall Prevention Month is: We all have a role to play. We were very encouraged by the number of people and organizations in Huron and Perth Counties who are committed and passionate about playing their role to prevent falls,” Edgar said.
Find more information for professionals, seniors or caretakers about fall prevention at www.findingbalanceontario.ca.
– 30 –