Senior citizens want to keep their independence as long as possible and Finding Balance, an Alberta government initiative, is trying to make that possible.
Finding Balance is a three-step awareness program for seniors.
“The first one is checking medications with doctors or pharmacists to make sure that they don’t cause any adverse effects that may cause a fall. The second one is staying physically active, because that is known to reduce the number of falls that seniors have,” said Susan Ostrem, a physiotherapist with Rimbey Home Care. “And the third one is watch your step.”
Certain medication can increase a senior’s risk of falling. As we age, medications affect the body differently, so getting them checked regularly can prevent a fall.
Watching your step is the final part of the program.
“That is to keep pathways, hallways, and stairs in your home free of clutter. Throw rugs is an example of those types of hazards that we would recommend seniors remove,” Ostrem said. “We have some fall prevention initiatives in the hospital here in Ponoka. In Rimbey it’s more informal and one on one.”
Ostrem can be reached in the physiotherapy department at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, (403) 783-3341.