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For Falls Prevention Week, Canton-Potsdam Hospital has info, resources

Posted 9/22/10

POTSDAM -- In honor of Falls Prevention Week, this week, Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Physical Rehabilitation Department is providing free educational resources and sharing Life-Line information in an …

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For Falls Prevention Week, Canton-Potsdam Hospital has info, resources

Posted

POTSDAM -- In honor of Falls Prevention Week, this week, Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Physical Rehabilitation Department is providing free educational resources and sharing Life-Line information in an effort to keep the community healthy and safe.

Over the past year, Canton-Potsdam Hospital has implemented a no-falls patient safety program that supports patients, visitors, and volunteers.

“The first line of defense against falls is to determine the amount of risk. Persons of age 80-plus and those who are not physically active are at a high risk,” said Director of Physical Therapy Michele Leroux.

“The second line of defense is to develop a plan to reduce some of the risk. Altering a person’s environment includes removing end tables and slippery surfaces that could significantly decrease the risk of a fall occurring,” she added.

“The third line of defense is improving mobility and balance. Low-impact physical activity can increase muscle and bone strength, which will also reduce the likelihood of a fall,” said Leroux.

In the spirit of Falls Prevention Week, the hospital is extending the focus to include community education. Community members may stop by the hospital’s cafeteria through Friday, Sept. 24 to receive a free falls tool kit and home safety checklist.

For related questions or to learn about services provided through Canton-Potsdam Hospital’s Physical Rehabilitation Department, call 261-5460 or visit www.cphospital.org.