seniors living independently -- huh
TRANSCRIPT
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: [email protected]
J. J. Current, BSTrauma Prevention & Outreach CoordinatorTrauma [email protected]
110 Irving St., NWRoom 4B-39Washington, DC 20010202-877-7153 PHONE202-877-3173 FAX202-748-7169 CELLwww.MedStarWashington.org