Adults are being encouraged to take steps to reduce the risk of injury from a fall. That’s why the Seniors’ Centre for Excellence is participating in Ontario’s first Fall Prevention Month this November.
During November, the centre’s dining programs, which include lunch for $6 per person, will feature a variety of speakers on fall prevention. Participants are asked to call to register:
– Nov . 2 at 12pm at Drayton Reformed Church, pharmacist Robin Brown will discuss the role medications can play in causing falls and common medications that can increase risk of falls;
– on Nov. 18 at 12pm at Palmerston United Church geriatric emergency management nurse (GEM) Lori Woestenenk, will be discussing falls prevention, as well as sharing experiences in her role as a GEM Nurse;
– On Nov. 20 at 12pm at the Clifford United Church Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team health promoter Sandy Turner will discuss falls prevention and share simple exercises that can reduce your risk of a fall;
– on Nov. 25 at 12pm at the Harriston Legion Robin Smart, from the Waterloo Wellington Alzheimer’s Society will talk about the relationship between falls risk and dementia; and
– on Nov. 26 at 12pm at Arthur United Church Pedorthis Bob Witte, owner of Fit to Walk Orthotics Footwear, Fergus, will explain the importance of proper footwear.
Local walking groups are launching during November, they take place in the communities of Drayton, Arthur, Harriston and Palmerston at their respective arenas. Exercise plays a key role in fall prevention and the community halls at these arenas offer the perfect venue for safe, indoor walking. Participants are asked to bring a pair of clean, indoor walking shoes. Every fitness level is welcome. Call the centre for specific details.
For more information about the centre for excellence, the Walking Groups, to register for dining programs, contact: seniors services coordinator Helen Edwards, at 519-638-1,000, hedwards@mapleton.ca or visit www.mapleton.ca.
