As November rolls in, it’s time to pay attention to a critical public health issue—the accessibility and safety of our surroundings. This month is Falls Prevention Month, spearheaded by Alberta Blue Cross in collaboration with the Alberta Injury Prevention Centre. Together, they are running the annual Finding Balance campaign aimed at educating and empowering Alberta's seniors to enhance their safety and independence.

According to the Alberta Injury Prevention Centre, falls stand as the leading cause of injury among older adults, a statistic that cannot be overlooked. "The older we get, the greater the risk of falling becomes," highlights a press release from the Centre. As our bodies age, they undergo various changes that can affect our balance, coordination, and overall mobility.

The Finding Balance campaign seeks to raise awareness about fall prevention in order to foster a healthier, safer environment for older Albertans. Alberta Blue Cross is at the forefront of this initiative, actively promoting injury prevention by sponsoring important programs that enhance community awareness and health literacy.

Executive Vice President Brian Geislinger from Alberta Blue Cross notes the increased risks associated with winter weather. "With the arrival of winter, our streets and sidewalks turn into ice-coated obstacle courses. We strongly encourage everyone—especially older adults—to implement safety measures to avoid falls and remain safe," he remarks.

Kathy Belton, director of the Injury Prevention Centre, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "Falls can significantly impact the lifestyle and independence of older adults. Raising awareness about falls prevention is essential to empower individuals to maintain their independence."

Shocking statistics reveal that one in three older Albertans will experience a fall each year; however, there are proactive steps everyone can take to mitigate this risk. Here are some expert tips from the Injury Prevention Centre to help you stay upright during the slippery winter months:

Tips for Fall Prevention

1. **Take Your Time:** Avoid rushing to minimize the risk of losing balance. 2. **Footwear Matters:** Wear shoes or boots with a wide, flat heel that can adapt to icy conditions. 3. **Check Soles:** Choose shoes with flexible soles that provide adequate grip—too much or too little can be dangerous. 4. **Use Ice Grips:** Consider wearing ice grips over your shoes or boots; remember to remove them when indoors as they can be slippery on smooth surfaces. 5. **Cane Safety:** If you use a cane, enhance it with a retractable ice pick for better traction. 6. **Portable Sand:** Carry a small bag of sand to sprinkle on troublesome icy spots. 7. **Hands-Free:** Keep your hands free for gripping onto handrails or other supports. 8. **Penguin Walk:** For safe navigation on ice, walk like a penguin! Bend slightly, keep your feet flat and pointed out, take short, shuffle-like steps, and keep your arms at your sides (not in pockets).

With over 20 years of dedicated service, the Injury Prevention Centre has been aiding communities and individuals in reducing risks of injury across Alberta. This November, let’s work together to embrace preventive measures to ensure that fall-related injuries do not disrupt the lives of our older citizens—because a small step could mean a giant leap towards a safer community! Stay informed, stay safe, and remember: your safety is in your hands!