MAPLETON – November is Falls Prevention Month. Wellington County Safe Communities Falls Prevention Action Group reminds you that falls are the number one cause of injury related death among adults over 65 and cause 40 per cent of admissions to long term care facilities.
Seniors in Guelph and Wellington County are lucky to have access to many exercise opportunities, including the free VON SMART exercise program currently providing 23 virtual classes weekly.
Your local seniors centre can connect you with stay active opportunities.
“Regardless of how educated one is in ‘falls prevention’, they still happen,” said Kelly Gee, VON SMART program coordinator.
“One in three seniors will fall and falling once doubles the risk of falling again.
“Though seniors with good balance, coordination and strong muscles may fall, the chance of sustaining serious injuries are reduced.”
Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team (MMFHT) kinesiologist, Sandy Turner, reminds everyone that “‘motion is lotion’ and daily bouts of movement will make you feel and move better.
“It is never too late to start an exercise program …go walking today.”
A year ago, Patricia Wallis, attended VON exercise class to improve her health and walking.
This February she went south and was able to walk the beach with her cane.
Unfortunately, a fall fractured her hip.
After six weeks non-weight bearing the crack healed but she couldn’t walk on her left leg.
Once able, she slowly started the VON exercises on Wightman Television and learned of the SMART Zoom program.
“I still use a cane sometimes and a walker outside due to needing rests,” she said.
“I am so thankful for VON offering these Zoom programs, I am 82, feeling great, and encourage any older adult to participate in VON exercises.”
Another VON success story is Pearl Robinson.
“I’m 88 years old and thankful to get to this age,” she said.
“We don’t get older without a few aches, pains or falls and I have had my share of all of them.
“Two falls left me with a fractured wrist and ankle and last fall, a concussion.”
She was dealing with these when COVID-19 brought everything to a halt.
Robinson was thrilled when a call from the VON offered the exercise classes online.
“I suffer with osteoporosis and severe joint pain,” she said.
“The VON SMART program has made a difference in my daily life.
“I encourage anyone reading this to try this program, we have more time now than ever. Why not use it to make a difference in your life.”
Seven years ago, Bernadette Guertin couldn’t even get out of her chair without assistance.
Today, she has trouble but can do six sit to stand exercises in a row.
“I’m 70 and in better shape than seven years ago,” she said.
“I continue to exercise with the SMART program through Zoom regularly.
“I know the SMART exercises are helpful for physical movement, but also great for mental stimulation.
“Seeing smiling faces as I log into my Zoom exercise classes is a gift, especially during this time. Love VON, thank you.”
If you have any questions about the SMART exercise program, call Kelly Gee. SMART program coordinator, at 519-323-2330 or call your local Family Health Team, or seniors centre to find out what programs they offer to help you to stay active and independent.
Submitted by Helen Edwards, Mapleton Seniors’ Health Services Coordinator