‘Strengthening Community Connections in Falls Prevention’

September is fall prevention month

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN)- Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults. Older people are more likely to fall which can cause serious injury. The causes of falls in the elderly include muscle weakness, poor balance and vision, lack of confidence at moving about and the effect of some medications. Even falls without injury can cause fear of falling which often leads to lack of activity that causes physical decline, depression, and social isolation. Falls threaten the safety and independence of older Panhandle residents and can have significant personal and economic costs. According to the NCOA more than one-fourth of Americans over age 65 experiences a fall each year and the majority of falls happen at home.

This year’s Fall Prevention Awareness Month theme is Strengthening Community Connections in Falls Prevention. The Panhandle Falls Prevention Coalition wants you to know that falling doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging. You can prevent falls by doing the right kind of exercises, making your home safer, getting regular health checkups, and more. Contact your healthcare provider today to earn steps you can take to stay safe.

The Panhandle Falls Coalition is working together to bring important Fall Prevention programs to communities in the area.

Stepping On is a seven-week small group falls prevention class. The class covers topics including identifying falls hazards in the home, using a walker or cane, strength and flexibility exercises, medication management, proper footwear, and more.

Tai Chi is a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing that improves strength, flexibility, and balance. Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention is a small group class consisting of at least 16 one-hour sessions.

Bingocize combines the game of bingo with exercise and falls prevention and/or nutrition education. The class is held twice a week for 45-60 minutes for 10 weeks. Bingocize allows sedentary adults of all physical and mental abilities to increase their activity

Stay tuned for more information about an upcoming program near you or contact Samantha Williams at AOWN at 308- 635-0851 to learn more or to get involved as an instructor for one of the programs listed above.

Panhandle Public Health District is working together to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for all who live, work, learn, and play in the Panhandle. Our vision is that we are a healthier and safer Panhandle Community

Panhandle Public Health District joins the Aging Office of Western Nebraska (AOWN), Scotts Bluff County Health Department, the Nebraska Falls Prevention Coalition, and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) to bring awareness to the importance of preventing falls.