Did you know nearly 3 million older adults are treated for injuries related to a fall in emergency rooms each year? One in five falls causes a severe injury, such as a broken ankles, arms and wrists, hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries including concussions.
Think First
Think First is a group class geared toward adults ages 65 and over who live independently and who want to:
While we can’t prevent every fall, there are many things you can do to decrease your chances of falling to avoid severe injury. ThinkFirst to Prevent Falls is a one-hour presentation designed for older adults and their family members or caregivers. Its goal to raise awareness about risk factors for falls and to learn how to reduce them in their home and community, and in regards to their medications, vision, nutrition, and physical activity. The presentation also covers what to do in case of a fall and the importance of talking with your health care provider.
Tai Chi for Health and Arthritis-Form 1
This class focuses on relieving the symptoms of arthritis, pain and enhancing overall healthy movement. Tai Chi is a safe exercise for all abilities, with or without arthritis and can be safely progressed for those wanting a challenge. Tai Chi has been proven to prevent falls, increase balance and movement, improve memory and improve quality of life for all participants.
Through instruction and facilitated group discussion, this class builds confidence and helps participants manage their health behaviors, reduce risk of falls and maintain active and fulfilling lives. Subjects covered include the role vision plays in keeping balance, how medications can contribute to falls, ways to stay safe when out in your community and how to check your home for safety hazards.
A fall prevention program may be right for individuals who:
- Are 65 or over
- Are concerned with falling
- Have experienced falls in the past
- Just don’t move or walk with the confidence they used to have
- Have muscle weakness and limited mobility
- Complain of dizziness or light headedness
- Experience problems with vision or numbness in their feet
We offer a variety of classes to improve balance, educate about fall prevention and increase safe activity to those of all abilities. Our programs include exercises to improve balance and strength as well as programs to foster better coordination, strengthen lower body muscles and increase confidence.
You can take four simple steps to help prevent injuries from falls:
- Begin a regular exercise program. Exercises that improve balance and strength are the most helpful.
- Ask your health care provider to review your medicines. Some medicines or combinations of medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy and cause you to fall.
- Get a vision exam. Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling.
- Make your home safer. Remove tripping hazards, such as throw rugs and electrical cords from stairs, living areas and the kitchen, and repair any loose tiles and uneven floorboards. Install grab bars next to your toilet and shower and be sure your home has adequate lighting, including night lights in hallways and bathrooms.
