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FALLS PREVENTION
for Seniors & Caregivers
If you want to know what you can do to reduce your chances of falling, or if you are concerned about a loved one having a fall, then you’re in the right place. This page will give you information about:
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Falls-Related Programs and Services
If you have already had some minor falls, the very first thing you should do is talk to your doctor! He or she can help figure out what is causing you to fall, and what can be done about it. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist like an optometrist (eye doctor) or a physical therapist, they may want to check you medications, or they may write a prescription for medical equipment such as a cane or a walker.
Falls Prevention Workshops
In addition to the Live Strong and Safe Workshop offered by A4AA, the following agencies also (at times) have basic falls prevention sessions that are open to the public. Click the links to see their current offerings:
> Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center, see “Yes I can”
> Eskaton, see “Balance Matters”
> UC Davis Center for Healthy Aging, see “Coming of Age”
Exercise Programs
Most senior and community centers offer free or low cost exercise programs. Tai Chi is considered one of the best forms of exercise for preventing falls because it focuses on balance. In Sacramento County, A4AA provides funding for the Warm Water Therapy program at Easter Seals. Another specialized program is the City of Sacramento’s 50+ Wellness Program. Also, the LIFE Center at Sacramento State University offers workshops on yoga and balance and (coming soon) on fall risk reduction; theses are open to the public for a nominal fee. To find out what else is available in your area, contact Senior Information and Assistance.
Home Modification
The following A4AA-funded agencies offer FREE minor home modification services to eligible persons. Call for details.
Smoke Detector Services
Some Fire Departments will check and replace your smoke detector for free. Check the telephone book for your local contact number.
The “Lifeline” Service
In case you do have a fall at home, and you are not able to reach your telephone, the “Lifeline” service allows you to call for help. Normally, a person wears either a wristband or a necklace that has a button that they can push in case of an emergency (including a fall, a fire or an intruder). Contact Senior Information and Assistance to find out what options are available in your area.
Medication Management Programs
For people who have trouble managing their medications, there are a couple of options to consider. Some pharmacies can help by pre-packaging your pills according to the day you are supposed to take them. A nurse or other qualified caregiver can do the same thing using a large plastic pill box.
A4AA provides funding for a free medication management program that uses an electronic machine which is programmed to dispense pills at the appropriate times. Currently, that service is available in Nevada, Placer, Sutter, Yolo and Yuba Counties. Contact Home Health Care Management at (530) 343-0727.
The File of Life Program
Everyone who takes medications should keep a current listing of the names and doses of those items with them. If you are unconscious and need medical help, this information will help ambulance and hospital personnel be able to help you faster. The File of Life card (wallet size or refrigerator magnet style) is used to keep a written record of your important health information. Seniors may contact A4AA for a complimentary card.
Nutrition Services
Most of us try to design our own diets based on what we think is healthy for us. If you really want to know what you should be eating, the best way to find out is to talk to a registered dietitian. If you have questions about your diet or if you have recently gained or lost an unusual amount of weight, see your doctor, and ask about getting a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist.
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Books, Brochures and Articles
How to Avoid Falling: A Guide for Active Aging and Independence
Eric Fredrikson, Firefly Books, Limited, October 2004
How to Prevent Falls: A Comprehensive Guide to Better Balance
Betty Perkins-Carpenter, St. Martin's Press, January 1999
Making Your Home "Senior-Friendly": A Guide for Friends and Family
Chuck Oakes, Aventine Press, October 2004
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Falls-Related Links (for seniors or caregivers)
One of the few websites dedicated to the subject of falls prevention is: www.StopFalls.org
The National Safety Council provides links to a number of articles and other resources on falls for seniors and caregivers.
The National Institute on Aging has a page on Falls and Fractures
AARP has a page dedicated to falls prevention.
The Home Safety Council offers tips on making your home safer.
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