Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Southpoint Sun - 13
Looking at the prevention of falls By Kate Wammes, RN Editor’s Note: Our monthly series of heath-related columns continues courtesy of the Leamington Area Family Health Team. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. In fact, more than one out of four older adults fall each year, but less than half will tell their doctor or nurse practitioner. Fall injuries can make it difficult for individuals to get around, do everyday activities, or live on their own. There are many things that may increase your risk for falls, such as having a history of falls (falling once doubles your chances of falling again), weakness and difficulties with walking or balance. Some prescribed and over-the-counter medications may also affect your balance. Health conditions (vision or hearing problems, blood pressure, pain, etc.), foot pain or poor footwear, and home hazards such as broken or uneven steps, throw rugs, cluttered areas, may also increase your chance of a fall. The good news is that many of these things can be changed or modified to help prevent falls. Below are some simple suggestions you can do to lessen the risk of falls: 1 — Make a list of all of your medications -prescribed and over-the-counter. Ask your doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist to review your list to see if
any increase your risk for falls. 2 — Get your eyes checked – keep up to date with annual eye appointments and be sure to update your glasses if needed. 3 — Keep moving - exercises like tai chi, water aerobics, and walking can reduce falls by increasing strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. It is best to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your activity. 4 — Wear proper footwear – wear proper fitting, sturdy shoes with non skid soles. Avoid high heels, floppy slippers or shoes, and shoes with slick soles. 5 — Remove household hazards – take a look around your home. Remove clutter from high traffic areas, remove or secure loose rugs, store items in easy to reach areas, use non slip mats in your tub or shower, etc. 6 — Light up your home – use lamps in bedrooms, remove clutter and clear a path to light switches, turn on lights before going up or down stairs, etc. 7 — Use assistive devices – use a cane or walker if needed. Other assistive devices such as hand rails, raised toilet seats, grab bars, or a referral to an Occupational Therapist may be considered to make further recommendations to your home. 8 — Talk with your doctor or nurse practitioner about your risk.
Community Calendar
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 DONATE BLOOD - Leamington Blood Donor Clinic - at the Leamingotn Lebanese Club, 447 Hwy. 77 Leamington. 1:00 - 7:00 p.m. Book ahead. Book now. Visit: blood.ca or call 1-888-236-6283.
Church, Food Cupboard at St. John’s Anglican church, The Bridge (ages 14-24), Food Pantry at Parkdale Variety, neighbourhood pantry at Erie South and Marlborough and the Angel Pantry at St. John’s Anglican Church. All are free. All are welcome.
ONGOING MIRACLE MOBILE MARKET - Free fresh produce boxes available in Wheatley every Tuesday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. at Wheatley Baptist Church, 47 Talbot Road E. You can pick up a box and have option of paying it forward by donating and helping someone else.
ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT SOMEONE’S DRINKING? Al-Anon Family Groups meeting information: 519-790-7739 or www.alanonwindsoressex.com
ERIE SHORES TOASTMASTERS Meeting online at 6:00 p.m. every other Wednesday. Next meetings are February 3 and 17th. Develop your Communication and Leadership Skills in a positive, friendly environment. Visit a meeting and see how you like it! For more info Email: ErieShoresTM@yahoo.com Facebook: Erie Shores Toastmasters or go to ErieShores. toastmastersclubs.org and click on Contact Us. COMMUNITY TAKEOUT IS AVAILABLE at Leamington United Church, 4:00 - 5:00 pm every Monday. St. John’s Anglican Church also has takeout meals available every Wednesday from 4-5pm. Food and clothing are available from St. Vincent De Paul at St. Michael’s Parish, Salvation Army Food Bank, The warming Cross at St. Paul’s Lutheran
IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, THAT’S YOUR BUSINESS If you want to stop, we can help. Call Alcoholics Anonymous: 519-999-1234. RANDY ATKINSON FUND provides money for extras that OHIP doesn’t pay for or to help with unexpected expenses for cancer patients (e.g. hospital parking etc). If you, your group or organization would like to have a speaker explain the fund and its availability in this area, call 519-682-2580. PLAY ROTARY TV BINGO GAMES - Tuesday nights, live on TVCOGECO from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Can only be viewed in Chatham-Kent viewing areas. Support the community and purchase your cards from Adamson Guardian Drugs, Wheatley. Pick up your cards early! Play 5 different games on 3 faces in 1 hour. $3 for 15 ways to win and $2000 in prizes.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR IS NOW BACK IN THE SOUTHPOINT SUN To place your event in the Community Calendar... Phone: 519-398-9098 • Email: sun@southpointsun.ca • or drop off at 194 Talbot St. E. Unit 2, Leamington SUBMISSIONS NOT GUARANTEED.
OUT WITH OLD — IN WITH THE NEW
LEAMINGTON — Crews from Gagnon Demolition were busy this past week, razing the former Towle Harbour building at Sturgeon Creek, to make way for a brand new restaurant. Caldwell First Nation purchased the property a few years ago and had been running a seasonal pub-style restaurant called The Happy Snapper. The Caldwells have brought in world-renowned indigenous chef, Billy Alexander, who will be opening Three Fires Indigenous Restaurant on the site. The new restaurant will be open year round after it opens this summer. In the top photo, the demolition was just beginning on Thursday, January 21. In the bottom photo, the crew is nearing completion on Monday, January 25. Sun photos.
