Fall Prevention Week in Sacramento

The third week in September is officially "Fall Prevention Week". Cities throughout the country make an attempt to increase awareness of fall risk factors and local resources that can help a person remain safe. As the Fall Prevention Lady, this is my week! And let me tell you, I'm busy! (PRAISE THE LORD)

In addition to teaching my community-based FallProof™ balance and mobility training classes, I will be doing the follow fall prevention-related activities:
Monday, Sept. 19:
-8-8:30am....Featured on Cable TV show, "Older, Fitter, Wiser" with Dr. Moira Fordyce.
Comcast - Channel 20, Surewest - Channel 19, SIMULCAST: www.RCCTV.net/
Tuesday, Sept. 20:
Attending Sacramento City Council Proclamation of Fall Prevention Week
Wednesday, Sept. 21:
-Presenting two educational, demonstrative fall prevention workshops:

10am-11am: Asian Community Center
7375 Park City Drive

Sacramento, CA 95831

(916) 393-9026

1pm-2pm: Swanston Community Center

2350 Northrop Ave

Sacramento, CA 95825

(916) 333-6464

Thursday, Sept. 22:

-Taping Fall Prevention episode on local cable TV show, A-Z with Bea.
Comcast - Channel 20, Surewest - Channel 19, SIMULCAST: www.RCCTV.net/

-Training Sac State PT student in short-form FAB

-Noon-12:30pm., will be featured on local cable TV show, "Older, Fitter, Wiser". Comcast - Channel 20, Surewest - Channel 19, SIMULCAST: www.RCCTV.net/

Saturday, Sept. 24:

-Balance and mobility assessment screenings

2nd Annual Community Fall Prevention Event

Samuel Pannell Community Center

2450 Meadowview Road

Sacramento, CA 93831

(916) 4986-1876

Educate. Demonstrate. Facilitate.

The risk of falls can be reduced. Learn how to remain independent and enjoy the quality of life you deserve. Research demonstrates that the number one way to reduce the risk of fall is to engage in consistent exercise program. Click here to order a complete week of seated fall prevention exercise routines: Take 5 to Exercise DVD.

“It’s a Balancing Act – Fall Prevention in Older Adults”

Today I was a guest on an episode of the Sacramento educational TV series “Older, Fitter, Wiser. The Art of Aging Well”. Dr. Moira Fordyce interviewed me to discuss a public health epidemic among the aging population and how a person can reduce the risk of losing her/his independence. Today, we talked about fall prevention.

As a geriatrician, Dr. Fordyce is familiar not only with the consequences of falls but also factors that increase the risk of falling. Falls are accidents and even though accidents happen, a person can significantly reduce the risk of falling through increased awareness. Fall prevention is much more than picking up throw rugs or having a hallway nightlight. There are multiple causes for falls and fall prevention researchers recommend a multi-factorial approach to fall risk reduction.

Fall risk reduction is about increased awareness. A person needs to be aware of home safety, medication management, physical limitations, and lifestyle choices that increase the risk of falling. When asked the best way to reduce the risk of falling, I replied, "Following a consistent exercise program". I recommend a well-rounded exercise program that includes flexibility, strength, balance and endurance training. I recommend that people Take 5 to Exercise each day.

It's time to get back to the basics, the basic 5 stretches. Start slow, increase gradually. Be patient, stick with it. You can reduce the risk of falling.

See you on Episode #17, Comcast 20 or Surewest 19. I'll keep you posted!
The Fall Prevention Lady