Viva Vitality: Building a Safer, Stronger You

By Lisa Doyle

November kicks off Falls Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action to prevent falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury and a significant public health concern in Alberta, with one in three Albertans aged 65 and older experiencing a fall at least once a year. The good news, most falls are both predictable and preventable. Falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and there are many steps individuals can take to lower their risk.

Finding Balance, an initiative by the Injury Prevention Centre at the University of Alberta, provides evidence-based resources for older adults, caregivers, and practitioners focused on fall prevention. The Finding Balance Falls Prevention Month campaign encourages us to move our bodies, improve our health, and remove hazards from our homes to prevent falls.

Here are some tips to get started:

Move Your Body

• Engage in regular physical activity to improve balance, strength, and flexibility.

• Boost stability and coordination with activities like swimming, Tai Chi, or walking.

• Gradually increase workout intensity to build stronger muscles over time.

Improve Your Health

• Review medications regularly with your doctor or pharmacist, discussing any potential side effects.

• Prioritize routine eye and hearing check-ups to maintain optimal health.

• Stay socially active to nurture connections and well-being.

• Practice good oral hygiene by caring for your teeth and gums.

• Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.

Remove Hazards from Your Home

• Keep floors and pathways clear of clutter.

• Add grab bars in the bathroom for extra support.

• Ensure stairways have secure handrails and proper lighting.

• Choose supportive, non-slip footwear for both indoors and outdoors.

Finding Balance is also hosting the 2024 Virtual Trek Across Alberta. Throughout November, you can register on the Trek app to log physical activity minutes, aiming to reach 3,461 steps (or 2,492 km). For more information or to register, visit Finding Balance Alberta.

Fall prevention doesn’t have to be complicated. Begin with simple steps like choosing shoes with good traction, adding non-slip mats, installing night lights, and practicing exercises to improve strength and balance. These small actions can go a long way in reducing your fall risk.

Don’t wait for a fall to happen, act now. For more information on fall prevention, visit FindingBalanceAlberta.ca.

Lisa Doyle is a Health Promotion Facilitator with Alberta Health Services.