Fall Prevention Awareness Day
September 22, 2010
Do you know someone who has fallen? Falls are serious at any age, but especially for older people who are more likely to break a bone when they fall.
On September 22, 2010, FEMR and the state of Illinois proclaimed the first day of fall as "Fall Prevention Awareness Day." In the United States, one in every three people who are 65 years of age or older fall each year resulting in injuries, hospital admissions and deaths.
If you would like to receive more information about "Fall Prevention Awareness Day" or host an event in your community such as a health fair, educational activity or Osteporosis screening, please call FEMR at (847) 324-3937 or email director@boneknowledge.org.
Tips for "Fall Proofing" your House:
- Keep rooms free of clutter, especially floors
- Be sure rugs have skid-proof backs or are tacked to the floor
- Wear low-heeled shoes
- Do not walk in socks, stockings or slippers
- Be sure stairs are well lit and have rails on both sides
- Put grab bars on bathroom walls near tub, shower and toilet
- Use a nonskid bath mat in the shower or tub
- Keep a flashlight next to your bed; use a nightlight
- Buy a cordless phone so that you don't have to rush to the phone when it rings