IU Health Starke Hospital is partnering with Community Health Services of Starke County and Northwest Indiana Community Action to help raise awareness of the importance of the prevention of falls with independent seniors.
On Saturday, Oct. 6, IU Health will attempt to reduce the number of falls among seniors by teaming up for the Safe at Home event to make home modifications to over 150 seniors’ home across Indiana. If you would like to help in making these modifications to seniors’ homes in the area, go to the old Home Health building on 11 S. Main St. in Knox where a light breakfast will be offered and assignments will be given at 8:15 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. Call Ted Hayes at 772-1198.
Falls are the leading cause of injury death for older adults. IU Health emergency departments have seen an increase in the percentage of injuries related to falls among seniors for the past two years.
IU Health Starke Hospital President David Hyatt says that simple modifications can avoid situations where a fall occurs. Remove throw rugs, secure or install handrails, install a grab bar in tubs, repair steps, build ramps, clear overgrowth and debris from walkways, and inspect and remove tripping hazards.
