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FALLS PREVENTION PROJECT
 
The Rotary Falls Prevention Project promotes evidence-based on actions for falls prevention for the benefit of all Australians
 
Globally, falls are a major public health problem. They are the second leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide. Over 80% of fall-related fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries, including the Western Pacific. In all regions of the world, death rates are highest among adults over the age of 60 years.  For example, every day, 16 older people die from a fall in Australia.  This is the same number reported for all Australians who die from melanoma, drowning, death by suicide, cycling and car accidents everyday combined.

There is currently no coordinated health promotion for falls prevention as there is for many of these other issues. As our population ages, a coordinated effort could vastly improve the wellbeing of older people and relieve mounting pressure on our health systems.
 
The Rotary falls prevention project will be launched in 2025.  It will share falls prevention information with all clubs and provide a tool kit for clubs to promote falls prevention in their communities. 

In the meantime, here’s what you can do to stay on your feet -
 
  • Do balance and strength exercises
  • Remove trip hazards in and around your home
  • Get falls prevention aids like nightlights and grab rails
  • Improve your nutrition
  • Wear safe shoes
  • Have a medication review and check your Vitamin D (some medication can make you a falls risk)
  • Check your eyesight and hearing 
 
All these things are common sense, and they work! They are proven to help an older person avoid significant trauma and an expensive public hospital bed. Get proactive and stay on your feet.
 
For exercise tips and help, you can also check out the NSW Active and Healthy website.

Co-ordinated by the Rotary Clubs of Lismore West, Lismore Networking, and Rotary Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle, the Rotary Falls Prevention Community Awareness Project promotes evidence-based falls prevention for the benefit of older people, their families and the wider community.
 
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FURTHER INFORMATION
Contact Bob & David Barnes on 0406 585 848