Tuesday, July 5, 2011

SENIOR CONNECTIONS

FARMINGDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY

NEWSLETTER TOPIC OF THE MONTH

(SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2011)

TIPS ON STAYING INDEPENDENT FOR LIFE

-A HEALTHY BODY AND A SAFE HOME

Falls are the leading cause of injury hospitalization and at times deaths among adults 65 and older. Falls can result in lasting, serious consequences, affecting mobility, independence and mental health.

Falls are not accidents! They are not random, uncontrollable acts of fate, but occur in predictable patterns, with recognizable risk factors and among identifiable populations, such as older adults. A fall is a predictable and preventable event.

Another tip relates to prescription and non-prescription drugs that help us to maintain a healthy body. Certain types of drugs, however, have side effects that may cause dizziness and loss of balance. It is imperative that health providers (doctors, nurses, pharmacists) check your list of personal medication regularly to minimize these side effects.

Another way to maintain a healthy body is to stay active and do strength and balance exercises periodically.

Suffolk County, Department of Health Services has conducted seminars on “Staying Independent for Life”. Senior Connections attended a seminar in May 2011 and obtained pertinent written material as follows:

*Home Hazard Screening Checklist

*Personal Medication Record Card

*Strength and Balance Exercise Manual

*What is a Safe, Comfortable Shoe

A copy of this package of tips on staying independent for life can be obtained from the library reference desk.