Seniors’ Fall Prevention
Did you know that falls are the leading cause of injury and loss of independence among seniors? In addition, they often result in disability, chronic pain, reduced quality of life, and premature death.
This year marks the tenth annual Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week, to be held November 7-13, 2016. The intent of the week is supporting leadership across the province in preventing seniors' falls.
Please visit the Healthy Families BC website for social media connections promoting fall prevention awareness and Vitamin D: Healthy Families BC blog series
Are you or your family members at risk of falls?
Take the online interactive survey to find out.
The good news is that falls are preventable.
Key messages for fall prevention:
- Increase physical activity and muscle strength
- Improve mobility and balance
- Follow the Canadian guidelines for calcium and vitamin D.
- Have regular vision check-ups and correct vision problems
- Review all medications with a doctor or pharmacist
- Reduce trip and slip hazards in the home or outdoors
Get Involved!
During Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week, you can help by encouraging seniors and health professionals to learn more about fall prevention.
Visit: Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week website
To learn more, visit:
- BC Ministry of Health, Seniors’ Fall Prevention website
- SeniorsBC, Fall Prevention Resources
- Healthy Families BC website
- Physical Activity Line - there to assist in taking action for your health and the health of your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to call to gain free advice from a qualified exercise professional on how to prepare for physical activity in an effort to have fun and steer clear from injury.
