The dangers of falling can be helped by having some knowledge and awareness about some simple measures any elder, or someone with mobility concerns, can take to improve their safety.

“This is your invitation to attend the following information presented by Northern Health about adults who fall,” said Jeff Kormos from Northern Health. “Join the conversation about preventing falls.”

The information event happens on April 20 at 1 p.m. at the Quesnel Seniors’ Centre for an hour and half discussion. No registration or cost involved.

“Did you know falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults?,” said Kormos. “One in three British Columbians over the age of 65 will fall once a year, and falls are the main reason why older adults lose their independence. Many falls can be prevented and there are resources available to help keep older adults injury-free.”

Starting this spring, Northern Health will be hosting conversations across the region to learn how falls are prevented. Adults 65 years and older will be invited to share their thoughts during a telephone survey or an in-person group discussion in select communities.

Northern Health would like to learn:

· What people are currently doing to prevent falls.

· The unique ways falls are prevented in communities.

· What resources are available and needed to help prevent falls.

To find the dates and locations of the in-person group discussions and to register for an event, visit the Northern Health Seniors’ Fall Prevention webpage.

“We invite you to share specific details about fall prevention projects and goals in your community through completing this survey,” Kormos said. “The information gathered will guide future fall prevention efforts in the Northern Health region. We look forward to connecting with community members.”

A great start on thinking about falls and how to prevent them will come up in conversation at the event this week.