Prevent a fall and enrich the community

Times Contributor 

 

Resident Manager of Wheatland Lodge, Vickey Cooke is issuing a proclamation that November has been declared Fall Prevention month.

“Anyone can fall, but as we grow older the risks increase,” said Cooke. “Everyone should be aware of the hazards and risks.”

The Canadian Disease Control agency said that one in three adults will fall each year, and among the elderly, it can lead to fatal consequences. More men than women die prematurely from fall-related injuries. Non-fatal falls often lead to emergency room visits or hospitalization, with residual impairment of mobility, or sometimes brain injury.

Measures like exercising to keep muscles strong, reviewing medications for side effects, eliminating obstacles in walkways and getting regular eye examines are just some of the prevention measures that can help.

“Seniors are a vital part of our families, communities and province; giving generously of their wisdom, experience and love. It is a fact that one in three seniors falls each year, with 50 per cent of them falling repeatedly and have nine times as many falls as other population groups in Alberta, resulting in 7,700 hospital admissions and 20,000 emergency room visits. Falling or the fear of falling can lead to depression, hopelessness, loss of mobility and independence. So individuals and organizations across as multitude of disciplines are working together to increase awareness of this issue and encouraging Albertans to take steps to prevent falling and maintain and improve the quality of life for Alberta seniors, so they remain healthy, active and independent,” said Cooke through her proclamation.

Wheatland Lodge staff, in partnership with Bayshore Home Health, are putting on some workshops throughout November to assist with fall prevention measures. There will be special speakers on Nov. 17 and 21 on fall prevention and they are inviting community to attend.