Fall Prevention Week

The third week of September is officially "Fall Prevention Week" and as the Fall Prevention Lady, I am excited to see communities become pro-active in the prevention of falls among an aging population, at least for one week!
In Northern California, the Area 4 Agency on Aging and Kaiser Permanente are hosting a free fall prevention community event, "To Fall or Not to Fall". Saturday, September 25th, from 9am-2pm, there will be workshops, assessments and vendors that specialize in reducing the risk of a fall. Because there are multiple causes for falls, there are multiple ways to reduce one's risk of such a tragedy.

I am excited! If you live in the Sacramento region, come out for this FREE community event. Register now....(916) 486-1876.

Get out, get assessed, get informed, be proactive in the management of your well-being.
The Fall Prevention Lady

Fall risk assessment tool must match population

The Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) scale assesses the different body systems involved in balance and mobility. The FAB was designed for community dwelling older adults or older adults who are able to ambulate at least 200 feet without the use of an assistive device such as a cane or a walker. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) has been around a little longer and is more appropriate for more frail individuals or those who have more balance and mobility limitations.
In order for an assessment tool to be effective, it must match the population.

The fall prevention exercise research study that I am conducting this summer is intended for community-dwelling older adults who do not use a cane or a walker for mobility. The FAB is one of my pre- and post-study assessment tools so participants must be able to do the 10 fitness test items in order to be eligible for the study.

Do not get discouraged if you use an assistive device for mobility! Dr. Rose's FallProof™ balance and mobility program can be modified to meet the needs of those individuals who need more assistance. You can challenge your balance and improve your skills from the seated position. In fact, my Take 5 to Exercise fall prevention exercise program is done while seated. I teach basic strengthening and stretching movements, IN PROPER FORM, that will help you reduce the risk of a fall.

Get active. Take 5 to Exercise each day! If you're interested in being part of my fall prevention exercise research study, there are 2 FAB clinics left:
Tuesday, August 10: Natomas Community Center 2-5 pm.
Wednesday, August 18: Eskaton Jefferson Manor 1-5 pm.

Reserve your 20 minute spot! (916) 821-5715
The Fall Prevention Lady

Fall Prevention community outreach

I am excited about today's fall prevention workshop at the Hart Senior Center in mid-town Sacramento, CA because it offers me an excellent opportunity to educate older adults about fall risk factors and show them ways to reduce personal risk of falling through physical activity. Today's workshop is the first of the Area 4 Agency on Aging-funded grant program; same workshop as the Kaiser program, different funder who supports educating the community about fall prevention.

Last week I hosted the Fullerton Advanced Balance (FAB) scale clinic at the same location and it's no surprise that several of the people I assessed will be in attendance today. I am so excited that these people get it...they want to reduce the risk of falling by learning how to safely challenge their balance and mobility. Congratulations Sacramento seniors for taking responsibility for your safety and independence!

The good news is that Sacramento residents still have a chance to get assessed and be part of this fall prevention exercise research study! The last 2 FAB clinics will be held at the following locations. Give this a try! There is no obligation to be in the study and I guarantee this assessment will be a real eye opener about your balance skills.

Tuesday, August 3: Oak Park Community Center: 11:30-3:30 pm
3425 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Sac 95817
Tuesday, August 10: Natomas Community Center: 1:30-5 pm
2921 Truxel Road Sac 95833

Reaching out to my community,
The Fall Prevention Lady