Columnists

Who’s At Risk?

Issue 2.13

Did you know that one in every three Americans over the age of 65 will suffer from a fall this year? And furthermore, 20-30% of those who have had a fall will be injured severely enough to reduce their mobility and independence.

Who’s At Risk?

Being over the age of 65

Taking medication to calm your nerves

Taking more than 4 Medications per day

Having difficulty getting out of the bathtub unassisted

Having problems with strength or sensation in your legs or feet.

Having a trip, slip, or fall in the last 12 months

What can you do to protect yourself? Talk to your doctor every six months about medications you are taking to ensure that they are not counteracting each other or causing unsafe side effects. Inside your own home is where you are most likely to have a fall.

To help avoid this do your best to always ensure.

Floors are not slippery

Pathways are free of cords & other objects

Mats are removed or taped to the floor

Both Interior & Exterior are well lit

Anti-Slip decals are no more than 2″ apart

There are at least 2 grab bars in shower

Stairs are kept clear & have non-slip surface

Handrails are placed on both sides of stairs

Even with these precautions in place falls may still occur. Red Cliffs Health & Rehab will be sponsoring a fall recovery clinic to help educate seniors on what to after a fall. Such as techniques to help reduce complications, assess damage and safely get help.

Don’t be a statistic… Educate yourself on what you can do to protect you and your loved one. Hope to see you there!

Where: Spring Gardens Senior Living, 2654 East Red Cliffs Dr., St. George, Utah 84790. 435-688-1622. 2nd Floor Great Room

When: 1:30 pm – Thursday, January 24, 2013.

Light Refreshments will be served.

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