Third annual Walk with the Mayors highlights seniors falls prevention

“We’re practicing safe walking today with a few laps around the track and to spend some time with our local seniors and to make sure that they feel supported and confident in getting out there,” says Mcintyre, “even when the weather is like it is today, which is a little snowy and a little icy.”

“It’s important to raise awareness about safe walking, especially as we get into this season,” said Penhold Mayor Michael Yargeau.

Bob Thomlinson, Mayor of the Summer Village of Jarvis Bay, says the event is important to him as a senior.

“Walking is important to us,” he says. “This is a good opportunity to come and learn how to do it properly and safely. We spend a lot of time outside. I’m very happy to support the town, this event and the seniors.”

“I think it’s important for seniors and for all of us for safety,” said newly elected Bentley Mayor Greg Rathjen.

Monica Morrison is Executive Director of the Golden Circle in Red Deer and sits on the Board of the Central Alberta Falls Prevention Coalition. She says seniors falls are very prevalent and precautions to prevent them need to be taken.

“Falls is one of the reasons seniors end up in emergency. Because of a fall, they end up breaking a limb. A lot of times it’s a hip and then there’s extensive rehab that needs to take place after that. Sometimes there are complications from a fall which could lead to death,” says Morrison.

“It can be life-altering for them. They can go from living independently in their own home, to having to live in supportive living because they can no longer take care of themselves, depending on the seriousness of the situation.”

Ensuring sidewalks and walkways are clear of ice, making sure trips hazards are not around the home and making sure stairs are free of clutter are just some measures people can take to prevent falls. Making sure your vision is good and not walking if you’re dizzy are further steps to help prevent a fall.

However, Morrison says staying active also helps prevent falls, as it can result in good body strength and good posture, which helps with balance.

“When you get older, it does create some potential independence issues,” says Morrison. “There’s also the fear of falling, which creates social isolation as well. That’s what happens a lot of times in the winter, especially when sidewalks and stuff are not cleared and there’s potential ice. People will stay in their home, they won’t go out, which is not good. It’s not good for your mental health.”

Research shows one in three Albertans over 65 will fall at least once a year, with 90 per cent of hip fractures and 40 per cent of nursing home admissions the direct result of a fall. According to the Injury Prevention Centre, in 2014, 27 seniors were admitted to hospital each day for fall-related injuries, with 79 seniors admitted to emergency each day from falls.

by Sheldon Spackman

Third annual Walk with the Mayors highlights seniors falls prevention

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