Phelps Hospital Observes "National Falls Prevention Day"

Phelps Memorial Hospital Center invites area seniors to attend a fall prevention awareness workshop on Friday, September 18 from 9:00 am-12:00 pm. The activities will take place in the auditorium on the hospital campus, 701 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, and will include information on the Four Key Things You Can Do To Prevent Falls.

New York is one of 48 states participating in the National Council on Aging’s Falls Free® Initiative, a collaborative of national organizations, professional associations and federal agencies working together to bring education, awareness and evidence-based solutions about fall prevention to local communities.

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for those 65 years of age and over. Every 14 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. The chances of falling and of being seriously injured in a fall increase with age. The theme for this year’s Falls Prevention Awareness Day is Take a Stand to Prevent Falls. The day highlights the important roles professionals, older adults, caregivers and family members play in raising awareness and preventing falls in the older adult population.

“Falls are not a normal part of aging, and the resulting injuries can steal quality of life from seniors and their families,” said Albert Terrillion, the National Council on Aging’s Senior Director of Clinical Community Partnerships. “This awareness day is an opportunity for older adults and their support communities to learn how to reduce falls risks so our seniors can stay independent for as long as possible.”

Studies show that a combination of interventions can significantly reduce falls among older adults. Experts recommend:

• Engaging in a physical activity regimen including balance, strength training and flexibility components
• Consulting with a health professional about getting a fall risk assessment
• Having medications reviewed periodically
• Getting eyes checked annually
• Making sure the home environment is safe and supportive
• Having an annual hearing assessment

The Phelps Balance Center provides services to help older adults reduce the risk of falling, lead healthier lives and preserve their independence longer.

For more information or to register for the National Falls Prevention Awareness Day event at Phelps, please contact Ellen Woods at 914-366-3937 or ewoods@pmhc.us.