Elder Elder SafetySafetyononTribal LandsTribal Lands

Protecting Yourself, Your Family, and Your Community

Protect our Past,Prevent Elder Falls

Elders are central to community wellness they possess an infinite amount of knowledge about our tribal history, culture, language and wisdom.

Why Prevent Falls?

In the United States, falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for American Indians aged 55+ 1

[1] Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS). 5 Leading Causes of Unintentional Injury Deaths, United States 1999 - 2005, Am Indian/AK Native, Both Sexes. URL: http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/wisqars/. Accessed 2/26/2008

Risk Factors

Complications with Medications Cluttered home Problems with Vision Poor Mobility

Make the Home a Safe Place

Use our checklist to review home safety! Remove rugs, wires, and other trip hazards; use

non-slip mats in the bathroom Improve lighting Wear shoes at all times, inside or outside the

home

Medication Management Have a doctor or pharmacist review

prescription medications Some medications, or combinations of

medicines, can cause dizziness or drowsiness

Keep a list of all current prescriptions on hand

Check Vision

Poor vision can increase the chances of a fall

The wrong glasses, cataracts or glaucoma can limit vision

As you age your vision may change, so be sure to get regular checkups

Exercise Regularly

Exercise and stretching increase strength and reduce the chances of a fall

Numerous other health benefits to exercise – living longer & feeling better!

Proven Interventions What Works

Comprehensive clinical assessment with your physician

Regularly exercise for balance & strength Medication management Correct Vision Home safety

* When all of the above are addressed together you can greatly reduce the risk of elder falls!

Conclusion

Falls are a serious public health issue affecting our elders

Reduce falls by applying interventions that work

Our elders are the most honored members of the tribe. Prevent falls & preserve their independence

This publication was supported by Award Number U50 MN024133 from the Centers for Disease Control. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC.

This presentation was developed by the Tribal Epidemiology Center Consortium.

This publication was supported by Award Number U50 MN024133 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through a Cooperative Agreement with the Tribal Epidemiology Center Consortium. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC.