Personal safety is something everyone should be concerned about but new issues arise as we age and develop difficulty with our mobility. This is compounded by chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and breathing problems. Many older adults are living alone in the community without close neighbors or family checking in on them throughout the day.
Falls are the number one reason that older adults loose their independence and get admitted to a nursing home. Older adults also have a greater risk of death from a fall. Studies show that most falls occur in the home in the rooms where you spend the most time. Falls prevention programs can help you discover all the reasons why people fall and all the little things you can do every day to prevent a fall. For more on Falls Prevention programs see the Exercise and Wellness section, or look at the Events section for upcoming programs in your area.
Additionally, ask yourself: if I fall would I be able to summon help? Can emergency vehicles easily find my home in the country? My husband has dementia, what if he wanders into the woods, how will we find him? Other Safety programs available through Office for Aging Services include:
PERS: Personal Emergency Response Buttons. These are buttons worn on the wrist or on a necklace to push when you've fallen. There are many different types & features see the homecare section for more information or call NY Connects
Operation RUSH: "Return Us Home Safely": These are bracelets or pendants for people who have memory impairment and are prone to wander. There is no cost for these but may not be ideal if you live in a rural setting.
RUOK: Are You OK- Free computer generated call from the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department to check on you daily at the time of your choosing. When you answer the phone it prompts you to "push any number if you are OK." If you do not answer or do not push the button, the sheriff will call someone you designate to check on you. If you or your designated person cannot be reached, the sheriff will send a patrol car to check on you. Sign up for this free service through Office for Aging Services. New features of the program include multiple calls and medication reminders.
Rural House Numbering Project: Green signs with white glow-in-the-dark numbers allow emergency vehicles to find your home day or night. These signs can be place on the mail box or at the end of your driveway. A $10 donation helps to cover the cost, $15 if you need a post.
For more information on any Office for Aging Services Safety Programsor to speak with someone who can guide you, call NY Connects at 716-753-4582, 716-661-7582,716-363-4582 or email us
NYS Caregiving & Respite Coalition provides complimentary 6 week series of classes to help you enhance your self-care wile supporting a loved one, whether at home or afar.
Alzheimer's Association presents "Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body". Learn about research in areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement.
