The Falls Action Group’s focus is to reduce the prevalence of falls in Wellington County in adults over the age of 65. Research shows that participating in exercise is proven to reduce the likelihood of falls; we work to raise awareness about the many opportunities older adults have to increase or maintain fitness level in their communities. In addition we have been sharing resources such as our booklet “Exercise at the Kitchen Sink” to seniors during appointments with their primary care provider or allied health care providers. We also completed “Rise up to Falls” to distribute to seniors who require a greater challenge.

The Falls Action Group also attends community events to share resources such as home safety checklists, exercise booklets and SMART exercise locations.

In November, which is Falls Prevention Month, members of our Falls Action Group are out in the community speaking to seniors groups about Falls and strategies on how to prevent them.

Throughout the year we focus on assistive aids, ensuring seniors have access, as well as, education about a number of aids that will help prevent falls and make everyday tasks, just a little bit easier.

Members:

* Helen Edwards, Seniors Health Services Coordinator Seniors Centre for Excellence

* Kelly Gee, Smart Exercise Coordinator VON

* Olivia O’Hagan, Occupational Therapist (Mount Forest Family Health Team)

* Drew David, Occupational Therapist (Mount Forest Family Health Team)

* Jenna Crane, Kinesiologist (Mount Forest Family Health Team)

* Sandy Turner, Kinesiologist (Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team)

* Nick Serafini, Kinesiologist (Upper Grand Family Health Team)

LOVE CAN STEAL YOUR HEART, BUT A FALL CAN STEAL YOUR INDEPENDENCE!

Top Ten ideas for those who are at risk of falls:

1. Good fitting shoes; remember the first four letters in slippers is “SLIP”

2. Long handled shoe horn and/or reacher

3. Non-slip mats for the bath or shower

4. Motion sensor lights for the front porch

5. Motion sensor night lights for the bedroom, bathroom, and hallway

6. Cordless phone: Rushing to answer the phone can cause a fall

7. Install handrails on both sides of the stairwell

8. Double Sided Tape for all area rugs and mats

9. UVA/UVB Sunglasses

10. Snack bags with salt/sand to keep in your car or bag

Exercise improves balance &, strength and increases your bone density. All of these benefits will help to reduce the impact that a fall has on your life.

Call us to find an exercise program in your community 519-638-1000 or 1-866-446-4546

If you are interested in preventing falls, please email christine@safewellington.ca for more information.