Q. My neighbor, Suzanne, is an avid jogger. I always see her out jogging early in the morning while I’m walking my pups. She’s got all the gear, including one of those newer Apple watches. The other day, Suzanne was speed … [Read more...]
How Caregivers Can Help Prevent Falls
It's the first week of fall and Fall Prevention Week 2020! A year before the Coronavirus pandemic, Miriam suffered repeated falls and a broken femur. After she spent time in a rehabilitation facility and participated in 3 … [Read more...]
Common Advice to Prevent Falls Has Been Proven to Be Ineffective
Q. I am 72 years old and my 95-year old mother, Annie, lives with me. There have been quite a few times this past year when my mother has fallen, and we had to call 9-1-1 for help. We have tried every bit of advice that we could … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Tips and Resources for Fall Prevention
Dear Hayek, My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's a few years ago. I know that loss of mobility is one of the unfortunate symptoms of the debilitating disease, which often results in falls. Do you have any tips and … [Read more...]
Falls Aren’t Just a Normal Part of Aging — They Are Preventable!
It’s fall -- an ideal time to put on a light sweater, take a walk in the crisp air, and watch the green leaves being replaced by dazzling amber, maroon, gold, and bronze hues. Besides the rustic colors, crunchy leaves beneath … [Read more...]
These are Responsible for 40% of All Injury Deaths
Q. Recently, we got a call from the emergency room that my husband’s grandmother fell outside of a store and fractured her wrist. It was a rainy night and she slipped on the ramp walking out of the store. Typically, when you … [Read more...]
Experiencing Falls? This Could Be Why!
Carol lives with her daughter, Jennifer, and her family in their ranch style home. One afternoon, while Jennifer was sitting on her sofa reading a book, she heard a thump on the kitchen floor followed by a scream. She ran to the … [Read more...]
Laser Shoes, Magic Carpets, & More: Technology to Combat Falls
Q. My parents are snowbirds. Every spring, I pick them up at the Lorton Auto Train and drop them off at their home, and in November, they go back to Florida for the winter. My father has had Parkinson’s for almost 20 years now, … [Read more...]
Six Myths About Falls
Q. I recently visited my parents, who are in their 70’s, and have been worried ever since. My father, Sam, fell three times during the two days I was there. Often, my mother, Elaine, has lunch out and quilts with her friends, … [Read more...]