Fall Prevention Health Forum - Registration deadline

Helen Hayes Hospital will host an informational forum about Fall Risk Factors and Fall Prevention on National Fall Prevention Awareness Day on Friday, September 21, 2012 from 9:15 until 11:30 a.m. The event will take place at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw and is being sponsored by the Hospital, along with the New York State Osteoporosis Prevention & Education Program (NYSOPEP), the Rockland County Department of Health, Matter of Balance Program, Rockland County Office for Aging, RSVP of Rockland and the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation.

Space is limited and an RSVP is required by September 17th to the NYSOPEP office at (845)-786-4772.

The community health forum is open to anyone who is interested in learning about fall risk factors and prevention. Four presentations will be given by some of the region’s leading fall experts: Fall Prevention Deserves Your Attention, Brake Your Fall - Don’t Break Your Hip, Medications and Fall Prevention, and Risky Behaviors & Safety at Home and in the Community. 

Every 15 seconds, an older adult is seen in the Emergency Department for a fall-related injury and moreover, the chances of falling and being seriously injured in a fall increase with age. This program may be beneficial to the older adult population who may be at risk of falling.

Studies show that a combination of interventions can significantly reduce falls in the older adult population. Experts recommend a physical activity regimen with balance, strength training, and flexibility components; consulting with a health professional about getting a fall risk assessment; having medications reviewed periodically; getting eyes checked annually; and making sure the home environment is safe and supportive.

This year’s Fall Prevention Day Awareness Day theme, Standing Together to Prevent Falls, seeks to unite professionals, older adults, caregivers, and family members to play a part in raising awareness and preventing falls in the older adult population.

The program on September 21 is free and light refreshments will be served.