The Union County Health Department is committed to serving our residents through the lifespan. For our older adult residents, this means working to prevent falls – the number one cause of injuries which lead to emergency room visits, hospital stays, and deaths in Ohioans age 65+.The first step in addressing older adult falls is to make sure our residents know falls are NOT a natural part of aging. Most falls can be prevented. Older adults CAN take action to reduce the risk of falling and the opportunity to reduce falls among older adults has never been better. Research has shown that through home modifications, individual risk assessments, and participation in regular balance and mobility exercises, older adults can protect themselves against a fall.
Many of these strategies are being implemented right here in Union County through the Union County Older Adult Falls Prevention Coalition, formed and chaired by the Union County Health Department. Scroll down to see some of the exciting things happening.
Our Mission
To bring organizations and interested individuals together to prevent falls among Union County older adults.
Free Home Safety Checks
Confidence is important in life. As we age, changes in our balance and mobility can lead to a fear of falling, or falling again. This fear can affect confidence and quality of life. To help seniors live confidently and independently at home, Union County residents over age 60 can request a FREE home safety check to identify fall risk hazards.
The home safety checks are scheduled through Union County Senior Services. During the check a person trained in spotting fall hazards will walk through your home with you. At the end of the check, a list of recommended modifications to make your home safer and reduce your risk of falling is provided. You are not required to make any recommended modifications to your home. The program also provides financial assistance and works with local volunteers to purchase home safety items and make fall prevention modifications to the home.
Common modifications include:
- Adding grab bars around the shower and toilet.
- Repairing or adding handrails.
- Providing shower chairs and raised toilet seats.
- Improving safety of entrances to the home.
To schedule a free home safety check, call (937) 644-1010, select option 5.
Matter of Balance Classes
Many older adults experience a fear of falling. People who develop this fear often limit their activities, which can result in physical weakness, making the risk of falling even greater. A Matter of Balance is a program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. A Matter of Balance community classes include 8 two-hour sessions led by trained facilitators for a small group of 8-12 participants. This nationally recognized program was developed at the Roybal Center at Boston University.
Classes are offered throughout the year at many different locations. To find a class or get on a waiting list for the next class, call (937) 645-2049.
Who Should Attend?
The program is designed to benefit older adults who:
- Are concerned about falls
- Have sustained falls in the past
- Restrict activities because of concerns about falling
- Are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength
- Are age 60 or older, community-dwelling and able to problem solve
What Do Participants Learn?
The program enables participants to achieve significant goals. They gain confidence by learning to:
- View falls as controllable
- Set goals for increasing activity
- Make changes to reduce fall risk at home
- Exercise to increase strength and balance
