National Senior Safety Week
November 6-12, 2014
As the Canadian population ages, injury and death from falls are on the rise. This National Senior Safety Week, November 6 to 12, the Canada Safety Council challenges all Canadians to commit to “take five to prevent falls.” With these easy steps, we can all reduce the likelihood and severity of a fall:
1. Using this infographic, check your home for tripping and slipping hazards. Click the picture to view it larger.
2. Include calcium and vitamin D in your diet with milk and nuts. Check out the Osteoporosis of Canada Calcium Calculator to find out if you’re getting enough. Osteoporosis and weakening bones increase your chances falls and fractures.
3. Check your medications. If you are on more than three medications a day, or take pills that could impair your balance such as sleeping pills, anti-depressants or blood pressure medications, have a discussion with your doctor about how to best reduce your chance of falling.
4. Get your eyes checked. Even if you’re not experiencing symptoms, the Doctors of Optometry of Canada recommend that you have your vision checked at least once a year if you are over the age of 65, or every two years if you’re younger. Vision impairments are a leading cause of falls.
5. Exercise to keep strong. Try a gentle strength-building exercise like yoga or Tai Chi to work your core balance and reduce the risk of falling.
We can all take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from preventable falls. Check the Canadian Safety Council website for more activities and resources on falls prevention during National Senior Safety Week, November 6 to 12.
Also visit the Finding Balance website for tips on falls prevention, use their falls risk calculator and join the Virtual Trek Across Canada. You can pick up a Virtual Trek passport and pedometer for free at the Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network office.
