Arizona Living Well program helps to prevent falls
by Pima Council On Aging on Jan. 08, 2008, under Family, LocalQuestion: What do I need to know about the topic of falls? Falls are just a part of growing older, right?
Answer: Our bodies change over time, and some of those changes increase the risk of falling. Most seniors will experience problems with eyesight, sense of balance, mobility, bone structure and reflexes. Medical conditions such as stroke, diabetes and Parkinson’s disease also increase risk. But there is much you can do to protect against falling.
Each year, 1 in 3 people 65 and older experience a fall serious enough to require medical attention. Falls lead to hip fractures and other serious injuries and are the leading cause of death due to injury.
More than half of all falls take place in the home. One of the most important steps you can take is to do regular home safety inspections. Look for hazards, such as rough floor surfaces, clutter, throw rugs and poor lighting. Make simple modifications, such as grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs and non-slip paint on outdoor steps.
Inactivity due to a fall increases the risk. Here’s how it works: You experience a fall. Fear of falling causes you to reduce your level of activity. This reduces your reserve of energy, muscle tone and alertness, which makes it more likely you will fall.
Avoid this cycle by asking your health care provider about a fall prevention exercise plan. Four types of exercise work together in an effective fall prevention exercise program:
• Aerobic exercise, which improves cardiovascular fitness and brings more oxygen to the brain
• Strengthening exercise, which builds the muscles
• Balance exercise, which improves our sense of body placement
• Flexibility exercise, which keeps us limber
The Pima Council on Aging (PCOA), with grant funding from the Arizona Department of Health Services and Division of Aging and Adult Services, coordinated a new personal health program called Arizona Living Well. Among the evidence-based health workshops available to adults 60 and older:
• A Matter of Balance – A series of eight, two-hour classes presented over a four-week period features group discussion, lectures and problem-solving; role-playing; exercise and assertiveness orientations and at-home assignments.
• Getting Better Together – A six-week series about self-care for those living with a chronic condition.
• Enhance Fitness – A one-hour session presented three times a week of low-impact aerobics, strength-training, balance and flexibility movements.
PCOA will host a free, two-hour event to kick off the Arizona Living Well program at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Udall Senior Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde Road, in partnership with Pima County Health Department, Public Health Nurses and Tucson Parks & Recreation. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup will present opening remarks and keynote remarks will be made by Dr. Richard H. Carmona, former U.S. Surgeon General. The event will include information about enrolling in Arizona Living Well programs.
Today’s question is answered by Adina Wingate, PCOA director of public relations. Send questions for PCOA to generations@ tucsoncitizen.com.
