50+ Lifestyles

Falling is for Leaves. Not People.

By Sonita Oldfield-Carlson
Marketing and Public Relations
Milestone’s Area Agency on Aging

The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot of things, even as we move into Fall. One thing that’s still the same? Falling is NOT a normal part of aging for people, only for leaves.

Milestones Area Agency on Aging is committed to empowering all older adults to reduce their risk of falls, which are one of the greatest causes of serious injuries and death among people age 65+. In September, we join with the National Council on Aging (NCOA), the Iowa Department on Aging, county public health departments, and our community partners in falls prevention to mark national Falls Prevention Awareness Week (September 21-25, 2020).

“Milestones has a strong history of helping older residents with effective falls prevention programs in our 17-county service area,” said Sonita Oldfield-Carlson, Evidence-Based Programs Coordinator. “The goal of our health promotion programming is to help older Iowans age the best we can, remain independent, and reduce health risks specific to falls and chronic conditions.”

Since earlier this year, the health and safety concerns surrounding COVID-19 have prevented gatherings in person for Milestones’ programs. “However, an increasing number of quality resources are being developed for online access, including exercises and learning experiences,” Oldfield-Carlson explained.

“That’s why we’re pleased to share information about the new ’Falls Free Check Up‘ from NCOA, a short, 12-question survey that screens the participant for the most common falls risk factors. People who are comfortable using their computers or smartphone are encouraged to visit www.ncoa.org/FallsFreeCheckUp for a free assessment.

Once you’ve learned your risk, the next step is to take action. Pre-pandemic, Milestones and select community partners throughout the service area conducted two types of evidence-based classes for falls prevention–A Matter of Balance, and Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention—and one program focused on chronic disease self-management called Better Choices Better Health. Currently, the chronic disease self-management program and Tai Chi for Arthritis/Falls Prevention have been adapted for virtual learning. This means the programs retain their effectiveness but participants attend classes from the comfort of their own residence, using a computer, tablet, or smartphone device. In spring of 2021, A Matter of Balance (falls prevention) is expected to be available in virtual format.

To discuss enrolling and participating in virtual health programs, contact Sonita Oldfield-Carlson at Milestones Area Agency on Aging by email: socarlson@milestonesaaa.org, or phone 563-723-5969.

Sonita Oldfield-Carlson is Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator at Milestones Area Agency on Aging. She can be reached at (563) 484-3147.