Every September on the first day of fall, the Falls Free® Initiative promotes National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Some sad statistics surrounding falls:
Although these seem like grim numbers, Falling is NOT a normal part of aging! Falls are largely preventable.
A fall is any unexpected or unintended landing on the ground or a lower surface. This includes slips and trips. You do not need to have injured yourself for it to be considered a fall. Sadly a fall or near fall can induce a “fear of falling” which can then sets one up for increased risk for another fall. Fear of falling may cause you to stop doing activities you once enjoyed, weakens your legs from inactivity, and may lead to feeling alone or isolated leading to depression.
When it comes to falls, many risk factors ARE controllable! For example:
This week I am offering free one on one Falls Risk Assessment screenings for all San Camillo residents. This includes a brief questionnaire, a review of medications, and a short gait assessment. If you are interested, please call me to schedule your appointment. (414/ 259 – 4681)
We will soon be starting our 3rd session of “A Matter of Steppin’ ON with Lee”, a 6-week falls prevention program. If you are interested in joining this series, check out the hot pink Wellness Program binder outside of the O’Donnell room and sign up.
So, What have you done….. “Just for today”?