Falls are a scary thing. It’s normal to feel scared of falling, especially if you have fallen before. Even those who don’t fall can develop the fear if they have a friend who’s fallen. Falls among adults 65 and older can be dangerous and costly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about $50 billion is spent each year on medical costs related to non-fatal falls. One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as a head injury or fracture. Even though we cannot always prevent a fall, it is possible to take measures to help reduce risk of injury related to a fall. There are also things that you can do to be less fearful of falling.
Balance problems are very common in the elderly population. Fear may develop as people begin to lose control of their balance. Problems with balance and strength put you at risk for a fall. Some people tighten their muscles when they feel they are about to fall. However, this stiffening can limit the range of motion and make a fall more likely.
Some contributing factors for a fall include:
Talk to your doctor. Make sure to see your doctor regularly and inform them of any falls or changes to your health. Some of the medications that you use could lead to side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness that may lead to a fall. Common medications that can cause these side effects are blood pressure, pain, and sleep medications and antidepressants. Because the way your body reacts to medicines can change as you age, you should regularly review all your medications with your doctor. They will be able to make changes to them if needed.
See your eye doctor and make sure your eyewear prescriptions are up-to-date. Poor vision and conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts increase the chances of falling.
Remove hazards. There are several measures you can take in your home and outside of it to reduce the risk of a fall.
Begin strength and balance exercises. Exercise helps prevent falls by strengthening your muscles and improving balance. Regular exercise and staying active is one of the best ways to prevent falls. Balance, strength, endurance and flexibility all come from exercise. Good activities to improve balance include Tai chi, yoga, dance and stretching. Yoga and tai chi not only help with balance but also provide a time for recollection and quiet meditation. Cleansing your mind with these activities can help you focus on what’s important in your life—your health and your family. Peer support has been shown to be very effective. Get out and exercise with a group; it will build up your confidence so that you can actively work on your balance. Also remember to use the heel-toe walking method. Focus on getting the heel down first with every step. When you are walking, be aware of your surroundings.
It is important to be able to reach for help in the unfortunate event that you have fallen. Always keep a cell phone with you. Put it on a lanyard around your neck while you move around so that you have it with you constantly throughout the day. Keep a list of emergency numbers near your phone and in your cell phone. There are home monitoring devices also available. If you fall, you can press a button on the device around your neck or wrist. This alerts emergency responders to come and help you.
If you have fallen, the first thing you need to do is make sure you are not hurt.
If you are in pain, wait for help to arrive before moving. Do not attempt to get off the floor if you are injured. It can make the injury worse.
If you are not injured or in pain, it is very important that you know how to get up safely.
There are three main steps to fall recovery: Prepare, rise and sit.
Prepare: While you are on the ground, don’t try to stand up on your own. Look around for a sturdy piece of furniture like the sofa or a sturdy chair. Now roll over to your side by first turning your head in the direction of the sturdy furniture, followed by your shoulders, arms, hip and your leg moving to the side.
Rise: Push your upper body up and lift your head, and make sure you feel steady.
Now get up on your hands and knees and crawl to the sturdy chair or furniture. Place your hands on the chair and slide one foot forward so that it is flat on the floor in preparation for kneeling.
Sit: Keep the other leg bent with the knee on the floor. From this kneeling position, use your hands to slowly rise and turn your body to sit on the chair. Do not get up suddenly; let your body rest and sit for a few minutes before you do anything else.
Know your body and know your limitations. Fall prevention is key. If you have fallen, feel unsteady or if you are afraid that you may fall, make sure to talk openly with your doctor. He may change your medications, prescribe physical or occupational therapy, and get you started on a fall prevention program.
The content of this site is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical conditions or treatments.
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, we are dedicated to two fundamental principles: the progress our patients make and the outcomes they achieve. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our industry-leading performance scores, which demonstrate our unwavering focus on your recovery and well-being.When you arrive at our hospital, we will conduct a comprehensive assessment known as Functional Outcome Measures to determine the level of assistance you require for basic tasks. This assessment serves as a baseline to measure your progress throughout your rehabilitation journey. Based on this evaluation, your rehabilitation team will collaborate with you to establish challenging yet achievable goals and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.Throughout your stay, we will closely monitor your progress, adjusting your treatment plan as needed to optimize your outcomes. Before you discharge from our hospital, we will conduct a follow-up assessment to evaluate the extent of your improvement and ensure that you have the knowledge and resources necessary to continue your recovery journey beyond our walls.Our commitment to quality care is further underscored by our accreditation from the Joint Commission, symbolized by our prestigious Gold Seal of Approval. This accreditation serves as a testament to our adherence to rigorous standards of safety, effectiveness, and patient-centered care.At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, your well-being is our top priority, and we are honored to be your partner in achieving your rehabilitation goals.
At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, we are dedicated to two fundamental principles: the progress our patients make and the outcomes they achieve. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our industry-leading performance scores, which demonstrate our unwavering focus on your recovery and well-being.When you arrive at our hospital, we will conduct a comprehensive assessment known as Functional Outcome Measures to determine the level of assistance you require for basic tasks. This assessment serves as a baseline to measure your progress throughout your rehabilitation journey. Based on this evaluation, your rehabilitation team will collaborate with you to establish challenging yet achievable goals and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.Throughout your stay, we will closely monitor your progress, adjusting your treatment plan as needed to optimize your outcomes. Before you discharge from our hospital, we will conduct a follow-up assessment to evaluate the extent of your improvement and ensure that you have the knowledge and resources necessary to continue your recovery journey beyond our walls.Our commitment to quality care is further underscored by our accreditation from the Joint Commission, symbolized by our prestigious Gold Seal of Approval. This accreditation serves as a testament to our adherence to rigorous standards of safety, effectiveness, and patient-centered care.At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, your well-being is our top priority, and we are honored to be your partner in achieving your rehabilitation goals.
At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, we are dedicated to two fundamental principles: the progress our patients make and the outcomes they achieve. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our industry-leading performance scores, which demonstrate our unwavering focus on your recovery and well-being.When you arrive at our hospital, we will conduct a comprehensive assessment known as Functional Outcome Measures to determine the level of assistance you require for basic tasks. This assessment serves as a baseline to measure your progress throughout your rehabilitation journey. Based on this evaluation, your rehabilitation team will collaborate with you to establish challenging yet achievable goals and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.Throughout your stay, we will closely monitor your progress, adjusting your treatment plan as needed to optimize your outcomes. Before you discharge from our hospital, we will conduct a follow-up assessment to evaluate the extent of your improvement and ensure that you have the knowledge and resources necessary to continue your recovery journey beyond our walls.Our commitment to quality care is further underscored by our accreditation from the Joint Commission, symbolized by our prestigious Gold Seal of Approval. This accreditation serves as a testament to our adherence to rigorous standards of safety, effectiveness, and patient-centered care.At Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota, your well-being is our top priority, and we are honored to be your partner in achieving your rehabilitation goals.