Northborough Senior Center Director Liz Tretiak reminds us that each year, 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries. Fall prevention is a major issue taken on by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, and many local aging services, including senior centers.
According to the 2018 Tufts Health Plan Foundation Healthy Aging Community profile, over 10% of Massachusetts residents over the age of 60 were injured in a fall within the past 12 months. The same report indicates that 20% of Northborough residents over the age of 65 self-reported difficulty with ambulation. Luckily, falls are preventable, and there are many things to be done to be proactive.
- Always talk to your doctor about your specific concerns and have them evaluate your risks.
- Strength and balance exercises can increase your lower body strength and increase awareness of your body and balance. The Northborough Senior Center offers several strength classes available Monday through Friday, but please always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
- Having your vision and your prescription glasses regularly evaluated can also help prevent falling.
- Make your home safer- remove throw rugs, install grab bars, add more lighting, and be aware of ice and snow.
The Northborough Senior Center is available to assist you in making your home safer, including its new Sand for Seniors program. Call 508-393-5035.