COVID-19 HOMEPAGE The North Shore is in Phase C of the NSHD Reopening Plan: Businesses and organizations should now follow Phase C of the North Shore Health Department’s Guidelines for a Safe, Phased Reopening. NSHD Highlights 9/22/20: Falls Prevention Awareness Week As you age, the risk of falling, and fall-related problems, increases. Many adults begin to avoid activities for fear of falling but staying active can help maintain your mental and physical health, in addition to preventing future falls. Taking a few simple steps can help reduce your risk of falling. Steps to Prevent Falls Stay physically active – maintain muscles and strength Have hearing and eyesight tested – even small changes in hearing or eyesight can affect balance and cause a fall Know the side effects of your medication – some medications can cause dizziness or sleepiness Get enough sleep Limit alcohol intake – this can affect balance and reflexes Stand up slowly – standing up to quickly can cause blood pressure to drop and make you feel wobbly Use an assistive device – canes and walkers Be careful when walking on wet or icy surfaces Wear non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes and do not walk on smooth surfaces with socks or smooth soled shoes/slippers Fall Proofing Your Home Have handrails on stairs Keep hallways, bathrooms, and other areas well lit Mount grab bars on inside/outside of shower or tub and near toilet Keep night lights in bedroom, bathroom, and hallways for evening Keep cords, wires, and furniture out of walking path Secure any rugs or carpets Place skid mats on any surfaces that may get wet (bathroom, kitchen, entry way, etc.) Do not stand on sofas or chairs to reach items out of reach – use a grab stick or ask for help Watch for pets Keep mobile phone or medical alert device on you at all times – these can be used to contact help in the event of a fall For additional information on how to prevent falls visit: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures For information on fall-proofing your home visit: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fall-proofing-your-home Or contact your local agency on aging. Missed the highlights? Click here to view previous highlights.