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
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
South Sacramento fall risk reduction class
Some of you may be aware that I recently graduated from Sac State with a Special Master of Science in Therapeutic Aging. Like most (post-bachelor) graduates, I am seeking full-time employment (aka, a career position) with a company, a career that offers full benefits and the room for growth. Excuse me but like most American citizens, I find the list of job opportunities that offer a competitive salary and full-time benefits to be discouraging to say the least.
As an independent contractor, I presented a proposal for a 4-week fall prevention exercise class to the committee members at Parkside Community church and the response was a UNANIMOUS YES! Located in South Sacramento, Parkside is very active church that offers classes to the entire community. Becky Anton, the parish nurse, is currently doing the "Walk to Jerusalem" health promotion program and the parishioners are doing great.
Lifestyle changes take time. I tell my clients that Rome wasn't built in a day so don't expect your body to change instantly. Afterall, those extra pounds didn't there overnight so don't expect them to disappear in one week. By sticking with a well-rounded balance and mobility program, your body will adapt to the demands. The key is to safely challenge yourself....consistently. I am just the person to show you how to do that!
Parkside Community Church
5700 South Land Park Drive
Sacramento, CA 95822
(916) 421-0492
Class Times:
April, 2011
Monday/Friday 10am-11am.
Pre-registration required.
Hope to see you in class.
The Fall Prevention Lady
As an independent contractor, I presented a proposal for a 4-week fall prevention exercise class to the committee members at Parkside Community church and the response was a UNANIMOUS YES! Located in South Sacramento, Parkside is very active church that offers classes to the entire community. Becky Anton, the parish nurse, is currently doing the "Walk to Jerusalem" health promotion program and the parishioners are doing great.
Lifestyle changes take time. I tell my clients that Rome wasn't built in a day so don't expect your body to change instantly. Afterall, those extra pounds didn't there overnight so don't expect them to disappear in one week. By sticking with a well-rounded balance and mobility program, your body will adapt to the demands. The key is to safely challenge yourself....consistently. I am just the person to show you how to do that!
Parkside Community Church
5700 South Land Park Drive
Sacramento, CA 95822
(916) 421-0492
Class Times:
April, 2011
Monday/Friday 10am-11am.
Pre-registration required.
Hope to see you in class.
The Fall Prevention Lady
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Fall risk assessments at Eskaton's 17th Annual Health and Wellness Fair
As the Fall Prevention Lady™, I strive to increase awareness of lifestyle factors that increase the risk of an accidental fall. According to fall prevention researchers, the physical decline associated with aging is not only a leading cause of falls but also the most preventable cause of the leading cause of accidental death and injury among adults over the age of 65. As 10,000 baby boomers reach retirement status daily, it is up to individuals to take an active role in personal health promotion and disease prevention.
Health fairs are an excellent opportunity to become educated about threats to one’s well being. The purpose of most wellness fairs is to increase awareness of particular health topics and how to improve one’s wellness through the use of on-hand vendor’s services. I love going to senior health fairs and expos because I enjoy educating people about falls and how to reduce the risk of what most people think are an inevitable part of growing older. I specifically like to talk about following a consistent exercise program can significantly reduce the risk of falling.
Eskaton Village Carmichael, 3939 Walnut Ave, Carmichael, CA. 95608. Open to public 12:30pm-2:30pm. Eskaton residents only 8:30am-11:30am. Free.
Message of the day: Go to health fairs and participate in the free testing. Some results may surprise you. Something may motivate you to get active and take responsibility for your well-being. Some vendor services may be just what you need! Always check the vendor’s credibility and do your research but also keep an open-mind.
LOVE…
Monday, February 21, 2011
Fall prevention presentation at Baywood Court Retirement Community, Castro Valley, CA.
Thursday, February 24, 2011, I will be doing a fall risk reduction presentation for residents of the upscale retirement community, Baywood Court in Castro Valley, CA.
This is exciting for me because the target population is the same for whom the FallProof™ program was designed: independent older adults who still live in the community but are familiar with or concerned about falls and the consequences of a fall. Many of these adults do not consider themselves at risk; falls don't happen to them, they're too young, too vibrant.
Baywood Court is an active retirement community that offers residents the option of "aging in place". In other words, there are progressive levels of care available. Join me Thursday, February 24, 2011 at Baywood Court for a free educational presentation about the importance of consistent activity regardless of age or limitation. Come prepared to move as I guide you through back to basics exercise routine. Remember, exercises can be modified to meet any limitation or special need.
Call Jody Holdsworth or Gordon Chan at (510) 733-2102 to RSVP for you and a friend to attend the presentation luncheon or schedule an appointment for a convenient lunch tour.
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