Seniors Living IndependentlyB e t h a n y A n d e r s o n , M P HH o w a r d U n i v e r s i t y H o s p i t a lD i v i s i o n o f Tr a u m a a n d C r i ti c a l C a r eD e p a r t m e n t o f S u r g e r yI n j u r y P r e v e n ti o n a n d O u t r e a c h P r o g r a m

J.J. Current, BSWashington Hospital CenterTrauma AdministrationInjury Prevention and Outreach Program

Facts In the US, 1 in 3 older adults experience a fall each year.

Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults.

Falls are NOT normal.

Falls are PREVENTABLE!

Living Independently Falls can be a major life-changing event that robs you of your independence.

Fractures from falls, especially hip fractures, are a MAJOR source of loss of independence.

Preventing falls are the key to living independently.

EDUCATION Do you know what puts you at risk?

Does your family know what puts you at risk?

Risk Factors -- Biological Mobility issues

Chronic health conditions

Vision changes/vision loss

Risk Factors -- Behavioural Inactivity

Medication – side effects and/or interaction

Alcohol

Risk Factors -- Environmental Hazards in the home

Incorrect size, type, or use of assistive devices

Poorly designed public spaces

What Can YOU Do? GET ACTIVE!

◦ Strong muscles, good balance and a consistent exercise regimen can minimize your risk of falling

Exercise A regular exercise regimen of at least 30 minutes per day for at least 5 days per week

Exercise Ideas:◦ Tai Chi/Seated Tai Chi◦ Walking◦ Water Aerobics◦ Strength Training

Unconventional Exercise Ideas:◦ Gardening

Exercise (continued) Stay Safe!

◦ Start with small amounts and gradually increase◦ Move at your own pace◦ Its OK to change or stop an activity◦ Its OK to modify any exercise to protect your body◦ When in doubt, talk to your doctor

What Can YOU Do? Medication Review and Management

◦ The more medications (prescription and over-the-counter) one takes, the more likely someone can fall.◦ Talk with your doctor or pharmacists to identify and eliminate medication side effects and interactions.

What Can YOU Do? Vision Exams

◦ A proper vision exam and assessment can greatly reduce fall risks◦ Talk to your primary care doctor and eye doctor about your eye prescription and any other vision issues

What Can YOU Do? Home Safety Assessment and Modification

◦ Environmental factors play a role in approximately half of all falls that occur in the home.◦ A home safety assessment can identify factors that may put an individual at risk of falling.◦ Things to check:

◦ Floors◦ Stairs/steps◦ Bedrooms◦ Bathrooms◦ Kitchens

How can you stay safe at home?American Trauma Society

Other Helpful Tips Wear shoes both inside and outside the home – avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers

◦ Choose lace-up/Velcro instead of slip-on shoes

Get up slowly after you sit or lay down

Keep emergency numbers on your fridge

If you have a cell phone keep it on you at all times

In areas of the home frequented the most, put a phone near the floor in case you fall and cannot get up

We want to hear from you!Questions?Comments?Concerns?

Bethany Anderson, MPHInjury Prevention CoordinatorDivision of Trauma and Critical CareDepartment of Surgery

2041 Georgia Avenue, NWSuite 4B08Washington, DC 20060tel: (202) 865-7110email: beanderson@huhosp.org

J. J. Current, BSTrauma Prevention & Outreach CoordinatorTrauma Administrationjcurrent@medstar.net

110 Irving St., NWRoom 4B-39Washington, DC 20010202-877-7153 PHONE202-877-3173 FAX202-748-7169 CELLwww.MedStarWashington.org