Southeast News, October 2006
FALLS PREVENTION
It happens so fast, often during part of our everyday routine: making toast in the kitchen, cleaning the bathroom sink, walking to the corner mailbox. In an instant, you can lose your balance and fall. The result often brings only a few minor bruises, but as we all know, a fall could bring devastating consequences.
- Exercise - muscle weakness is the leading predictor of risk of falling
- Check your house for hazards (Call us for a helpful checklist)
- Have a nurse or doctor check your medicines – some medications or combinations of medicines can increase your likelihood of falling
- Have your vision checked
-Wear shoes (instead of slippers or going barefoot) both inside and outdoors
- Improve household lighting – try brighter and more energy efficient florescent light bulbs
- Put one of your phones near the floor in case you fall and can’t get up
- Think about wearing an alarm device that will bring help if you need it
- Always get up slowly just after waking up
Senior Learning Opportunities
Classes, discussion groups, coffee talks, lunch talks, movies, trips and tours, special events. Topics include the arts, politics, fitness, wellness, personal interests.
Location: Mostly downtown.
Cost: Free or low-cost.
Ages: 55+.
www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/seniors
612-370-3869.
Classes on topics including computers, defensive driving, travelogues, wellness, fitness, personal interests. Twin Cities-area trips.
Location: Minneapolis, including
Cost: Low-cost.
Ages: 55+.
612-668-1122 (Pratt), 612-668-3450 (55+ program).
Noncredit courses and special interest groups on intellectual, personal, artistic, and other topics. Trips, tours, outdoor activities, performances, special events, and summer programs.
Location:
Cost: $195 yearly membership offers 6 courses/year (chosen from 180+), others on space-available basis, and access to activities. $120 scholarship for anyone who believes he/she needs it.
Ages: Self-defined “older adults.”
www.cce.umn.edu/olli
612-624-7847.
Introductory and intermediate computer classes.
Location: Downtown Minneapolis.
Cost: Low-cost.
Ages: 50+.
612-659-6253
University of
Courses on academic topics (including winter online courses), monthly lunchtime program. Can also enroll in undergraduate courses on a noncredit, space-available basis.
Location: St. Thomas campuses in St. Paul and downtown Minneapolis.
Cost: $60 for 5 to 9 week senior course, $25 lunch program, $25 undergraduate course.
Ages: 55+.
651-962-5188