How to prevent falls scheduled Thursdays

By Dolores Saurer | The Daily Journal

Published Saturday, October 27, 2007

One of the concerns to be spot-lighted at the Senior Center during the month of November is fall prevention. Studies have shown that of active people over the age of 65 who fall and break a hip, more than half never return to their previous level of activity.

Falls are the number one cause of accidental death in adults over 65 with Minnesota being the fourth highest in the nation.

There are many reasons why people fall, and many, of course, too, that are preventable. If you have previously fallen in the past year or frequently need to use your arms to rise from a chair, you may be at risk for falling.

During November, we are offering a simple, quick test every Thursday (except Thanksgiving Day) from 11:15 a.m. to noon, to determine your personal risk of falling.

Material will also be available suggesting an exercise for strengthening of thighs and buttocks to help prevent falls, plus ways in which to "fall-proof" your home.

Help reduce your risk of falling through this "Stand Up and Be Strong" program sponsored by the American Physical Therapy Association and the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Are you due for the Driver Improvement Refresher class? The next offering by Community Education is scheduled from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 5, 12:30 - 4:30 p.m. at the Public Library. Register and pay the $18 fee in the Community Ed office. Phone 998-0544, Ext. 1600.

On Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 11:30 a.m., Chief of Police, Tim Brennan, will be at the Senior Center to present an update on criminal activity in Fergus Falls.

He will discuss how it might affect seniors and what measures can be taken to protect yourself. There will be tips on suspicious activity to watch for and how to report this to the Police Department.

This presentation is sponsored by Otter Tail County TRIAD. Make a noon meal reservation in advance and stay for the turkey dinner afterward.

The Red Hat gals are planning to attend this crime update then stay for the turkey dinner and enjoy some bunco after the noon meal.

Don't forget — flu shots will be given at the Senior Center on Friday, Nov. 2, from 9 a.m. to noon by the Fergus Falls Midical Group.

It's been a great year for Senior Program trips but with winter approaching and unpredictable weather in this part of the country, we will not be sponsoring any more until spring.

Meanwhile, if you have any great ideas for future one-day trips, let us know in the Senior office as the Program Committee will soon be planning for 2008.

In closing, remember: "How important it is to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!" — Maya Angelou

Dolores Saurer is a member of the Fergus Falls Senior Citizens program.