News Release                   For Immediate Release

November 6, 2003

Seniors Safety Week

Prevent a Fall ~ Protect Your Way of Life

Across Canada, the week of November 6-12 is designated as Seniors Safety Week. Grey and Bruce Counties consistently have a rate higher than the provincial average for hospitalizations due to injuries from falls in older adults.

Public Health has joined with the Partners for Seniors and Veterans to promote Seniors Safety Week, November 9-15, 2003. The slogan PREVENT A FALL, PROTECT YOUR WAY OF LIFE was chosen from earlier research with seniors, veterans and those who care for and work with seniors. Check out the website www.opha.on.ca/falls.

One in three seniors will fall in Ontario this winter.  Protect yourself by doing the following:

·        Clear trip hazards,

·        Focus on one thing at a time

·        Be active every day

·        Learn about the effects of your medication

·        Have your vision checked

The Community Coalition for the Prevention of Falls in Older Adults and Public Health are pleased to announce that we recently received "Stay On Your Feet" funding from the Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation to expand the Falls Prevention Program.

For further information call Public Health at 881-1920 Ext. 246 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.”

-30-

For more information:

Marguerite Thomas

Public Health Nurse

Public Health

881-1920