I was honored to be a part of the expert panel on Beatrice Bailey's cable show, "A-Z with Bea". In the falls among an aging population episode, Bea interviewed Dr. Huey Lin of UC Davis, Neil Hershberger of Burger Physical Therapy and me, Kelly Ward, the Fall Prevention Lady!
Dr. Lin discussed the epidemiology of falls, Neil talked about treatment after a fall and I talked about reducing the risk of accidental falls. Together, we point out that although falls are associated with aging, falls are not an inevitable part of the aging process; the risk can be reduced. With this expert panel, Bea offers viewer the medical, the treatment and the prevention perspectives of a fall.
For an older adult, a fall can instantly change her/his life. Everyone on the panel agreed that following a consistent exercise program is the number one way to reduce the risk of a fall. As a balance and mobility specialist, I recommend a thorough, individualized assessment to identify possible causes balance impairment. From this assessment, a qualified instructor or specialist can design a program specific to a person's needs.
However if you do not have access to a balance and mobility specialist, a great place to start is by engaging in a consistent stretching and strengthening program. Regardless of your limitations and/or abilities, you can begin with gentle stretches. Take 5 for Flexibility each day and you will find yourself feeling more energized as you release tension and stress.
Watch The Fall Prevention Lady on A-Z with Bea!
How: http://www.rcctv.org or
Sacramento cable TV channels Surewest 19 or Comcast 20
When: Monday, November 7 @9pm.
Thursday, November 3 and November 10 @7pm
Thank you and stay safe.
The Fall Prevention Lady
No comments:
Post a Comment