Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 65 experience a fall each year? It's a staggering statistic, one that not only poses a health risk for our seniors, but also a challenge for their families, caregivers, and communities. Fall-related injuries can range from minor bruises to severe fractures and even fatal accidents. As such, there is an urgent need to address this issue head-on, and thats exactly what we at TruBlue are dedicated to achieving.Understanding the RisksIt's essential to recognize the factors that increase the risk of falls:1. Physical factors: Declining vision, muscle strength, and balance can increase the likelihood of falls.2. Medications: Some prescriptions can cause dizziness or dehydration, making falls more likely.3. Environmental hazards: Clutter, uneven floors, loose rugs, and poor lighting are common culprits.Prevention Starts at HomeMost falls occur at home, which means creating a safer living environment is the first line of defense:1. Clear the Clutter: Ensure hallways and rooms are free from obstacles.2. Install Handrails: Ensure that there are sturdy handrails on both sides of the stairs.3. Proper Lighting: Ensure that all areas, especially hallways and stairs, are well-lit.4. Non-slip mats: Place them in the bathroom, kitchen, and other wet areas.5. Regular Home Maintenance: This includes checking the stability of handrails, the condition of staircases, and the functioning of lights.Personal Health and Wellness While adapting the environment is vital, we also must ensure that seniors are physically fit:1. Regular Check-ups: Discuss medications with doctors to understand side effects and any potential risks associated with them.2. Exercise: Engage in activities that strengthen muscles and improve balance.3. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to dizziness.4. Vision Checks: Regular eye check-ups ensure that vision stays sharp, reducing the risk of tripping over unseen obstacles.TruBlue's Dedication At TruBlue, we believe that fall prevention is a community effort. Our dedication to this cause extends beyond just providing guidelines. Our team is actively involved in helping to make homes safer and more accommodating for our elderly population. We work hand-in-hand with families to assess potential risks and implement solutions tailored to each individuals needs.Join the "Prevent the Fall" Campaign with TruBlue One of the simplest yet most effective tools in fall prevention is the humble grab bar. It provides a sturdy handhold in places prone to slips, especially bathrooms. In our commitment to making homes safer for seniors, we are thrilled to announce our "Prevent the Fall" campaign!In September, we're offering 100 FREE grab bars to those who need them. It's our way of saying we care, and it's a tangible step towards reducing those fall statistics.Take action now. Ensure the safety of your loved ones and bring peace of mind to your family. Click here or contact us directly to nominate someone for a free grab bar and lets join hands in our mission to "Prevent the Fall" together!Remember, it's not just about installing safety equipment; it's about giving our seniors the freedom to live independently with confidence. With TruBlue by your side, lets make every home a haven of safety.*TruBlue locations are individually owned and operated.Offer valid at participating locations only. Subject to terms and conditions. No purchase necessary for entry.

Summer is here and its time for the whole family to get moving!Every year, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) celebrates Family Health & Fitness Day the second Saturday in June (this year its June 8). The goal is to encourage families to make the most of their local park and rec facilities. For many people, thats pretty convenient: 74% of people who live in the U.S. are walking distance from a park, playground, recreation center or open space. Which is great news, because research shows that children and adults who live near parks and spend time in nature actually tend to be healthier mentally and physically.This month, in honor of Family Health & Fitness Day, think about the green spaces that are close to you, and dream up some ways to bring the great outdoors into your familys summer routine. Here are some ideas for fun family adventures all season long.Take a family walk to your local park. Grab your walking shoes and leave the car behind! Wave to the neighbors as you amble over to your favorite open space. Isnt it nice to get away from technology and screens and breathe in some fresh air with the family? You could even consider making this a part of your regular evening routine.Keep your park clean. Grab a trash bag and some gloves and pick up any trash you encounter at the park, playground or recreation facility. Make it beautiful so you and others can enjoy the serenity of nature, without being distracted by litter. Bonus: picking up trash can be a good workout!Sign up for a 5k (or plan your own). See if your local park hosts a walk or run, and if they dont, study a map and do it yourself! Make it a fun group activity by inviting friends and neighbors to join.  Plan a barbecue or picnic at the park. Stock up on your favorite foods and enjoy them al fresco at your areas green space. Take a ball or flying disc to toss around and make a day of it. Just be sure to load up on sunblock and find some shade, so you dont get a sunburn!Have fun. Play tag or chase; slide down slides; swing on swings; spin on the merry-go-round; flop in the grass; dance in the fountain; play fetch with the dog. Do whatever activity calls to you at your local park, whether youre a kid, or a kid at heart!Go swimming. Find your nearest pool, whether its at a park, a community center or somewhere elseand take the plunge! Swimming is one of summers greatest perks, and it also happens to be excellent exercise. Pack a pool bag with snacks, a book and plenty of sunblock and make a day of it.Pose for a photo shoot. Green spaces make beautiful backdrops. Gather some friends and tell them to bring some fun fashion and props and strike a pose.Sign up for a fitness class. Lots of parks have gyms and offer indoor and outdoor group fitness classes. This could be your summer to finally try yoga or Zumba! Or, maybe its time to try your hand at pickleball, or join a volleyball team. All of the above are a great way to get moving, and maybe even meet some of your neighbors.  Go on a treasure hunt. Wander around the paths and trails of a regional park and see what you can spot. Maybe youll find a four-leaf clover, observe some weird insect behavior or encounter other creatures. Tune into the flora and the fauna and see where your walk takes you.Visit a local farm or farmers market. Buying fruits and vegetables grown nearby is great for your health and the environment. When you shop whats in season, you might even get inspired to try some new recipes. See if your local park hosts a farmers market or head to a nearby farm. Take the kids along and let them choose fruits and veggies they want to try. Take it a step further and challenge them to help you come up with the menu for the week.Take a deep breath. Green spaces have a way of helping you relax, instantly. At a park, you can sit, rest, think and simply be, with no expectations or obligations. Grab a journal and some headphones, or just sit on a bench and watch the world around you. You may find that you leave feeling a little bit lighter than when you arrived.Spend a night camping. Whens the last time you went camping? Summer can be a lovely time to spend a night under the stars. Do a little research and find a campground near your house. Or, keep it low-key and pitch a tent in the backyard. It involves less packing and planning and easy bathroom and air-conditioner access. Bring more green spaces and green practices into your life. Consider what changes you could make at your home to boost your own healthy practices and activities. For example, kick off a regular family exercise routineyou dont need any equipment for sit-ups, push-ups, crunches and other strength-building activities. Plant a garden and grow your own fruits, vegetables and herbs, either in containers, in the ground or in a community garden. Challenge other family members to a walking competition and see who can squeeze in more steps every week. What other endeavors can you think of that would make health and fitness a part of your familys everyday routine?  Family health and fitness gets the spotlight in June, but its a concept you can commit to year-round. This summer, strive to incorporate some fun, healthy habits into the mix. Eating nutritious foods and adding more activity to your routine can benefit you and your whole family. And your local park is a great place to start!This article was contributed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.  Contact them concerning Medicare Advantage and Insurance Plans at 251-210-7089.

Taking Charge of Your Health: Mind and Body ConnectedPosted: June 7, 2021 , in Aging , Healthy Living , Activities and Lifestyle