Today's blog has been written by Marc Faktor and Bonnie Fiala.
Bonnie works for the BC Ministry of Health providing expertise on seniors' fall prevention.
She's been essential in the development and management of fall prevention policies and plans for the Province. She's passionate about helping reduce incidence (and impact) of falls for BC seniors.
November 5-11th, 2012 is Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week. The Province supports fall prevention by raising awareness of the prevention of falls and fall-related injuries among older adults. The theme is encouraging leadership and collaboration among health care providers, seniors and their families. There are events planned across BC – from Vancouver and Victoria to Fort St. James and Cranbrook.
For additional information, visit:
Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week website
Think Health BC, news and video: Friday, November 9
BC government news release: Monday, November 5
On behalf of Healthy Families BC and the Physical Activity Line, we encourage all of you to participate in at least one, Seniors’ Fall Prevention Awareness Week event to promote sport, healthy and active aging!
Are you or your family members at risk of falls? Take the online interactive survey to find out.
Keys to fall prevention:
- Increase physical activity and muscle strength
- Improve mobility and balance
- Ensure adequate levels of vitamin D and calcium, through diet and supplements
- Have regular vision check-ups and correcting vision problems
- Review all medications with a doctor or pharmacist
- Reduce trip and slip hazards in the home or outdoors
For more information on fall prevention and for resources to help your loved one stay independent:
SeniorsBC.ca
Fall Prevention Resources to Learn More (Great page with links to awesome falls prevention pamphlets, brochures, and booklets)
