It’s hard to believe, but the first day of fall is just around the corner, which is a perfect time to recognize the 7th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day on Sept. 23.

This reminder is especially important to the aging since the likelihood of taking a spill increases as we get older, along with injuries becoming more serious and the healing time of those injuries taking longer. In fact, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for those 65 years of age and over.

The National Council on Aging suggests the following steps to avoid getting caught in a downward spiral:

– Find a good exercise program that will help you build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact the local Area Agency on Aging for a referral at 239-652-6900.

– Talk with your health care provider and ask for an assessment for your risk of falling. Be sure to provide any history of recent falls.

– Regularly review your medication(s) to make sure side effects aren’t increasing your risk of falling.

– Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Your eyes and ears are instrumental in keeping you on your feet.

– Make sure your home environment is safe by removing tripping hazards, increasing lighting in walkways, installing grab bars in key areas and making sure the pathway from the bed to the bathroom is clear before going to sleep.

For more information about this Safety and Security tip, visit www.aaaswfl.org.

To report a fraud or scam, contact the Sheriff’s Office Fraud Line at 258-3292.

To report a suspicious person or vehicle, call 477-1000. In an emergency, dial 911.

Source: Lee County Sheriff’s Office