To the editor:
Join us for a free Lunch and Learn on Sept. 17. “Preventing Falls – One Step at a Time” is the theme for the 6th Annual National Fall Prevention Day. This campaign’s goal is to promote awareness to prevent and educate older adults on falls and the impact they can have on their lives.
Falls are the leading cause of injury death for older Americans and threaten seniors’ safety and independence. Did you know:
• one-third of Americans aged 65-plus fall each year;
• every 29 minutes, an older adult dies following a fall; and
• falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries.
Skiff Medical Center is bringing attention to this growing public health issue among older adults, and more importantly, the growing availability of proven falls prevention programs and interventions that can help significantly reduce falls in older adults. Experts recommend a physical activity regimen with balance, strength training, and flexibility components; consulting with a health professional about fall risk assessment; having medications reviewed periodically; annual vision check ups; and making sure the home environment is safe and supportive.
Please join a panel of medical professionals 11:30 a.m. Sept. 17 for a free Lunch and Learn at Skiff Medical Center to promote adult safety and decrease fall injuries. The session will include balance screening from physical therapists, environment safety from occupational therapists, and educational material on how medications, diet, and vision impact safety.
For more information, or to register by Sept. 13, contact Skiff Medical Center at (641) 787-3070. We hope you join us to enjoy this learning opportunity to keep seniors in our community safe.
Bonnie Vos, R.N.
Skiff Medical Center