Springwell’s Caregiver Central

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month!

The number of falls among older adults each year is staggering. According to the CDC, approximately 14 million adults age 65 and older reported a fall in 2020. Falls can have a significant impact on an older adult’s health, independence, and quality of life.

Approximately 1 in 10 falls results in an injury, which can lead to hospitalization, extended medical care, reduced socialization, and restrictions on daily activities. While not every fall will result in an injury, many falls can be costly and may contribute to a decline in an older adult’s overall independence.  There are numerous risk factors that can contribute to falls, including hazards within the home as well as health and medical concerns.

Taking a few extra moments to ask about falls, mobility, medications, vision, balance, and home safety can help identify risks early and connect older adults with resources that may help them remain safe, healthy, active, and independent in their homes and communities.  A simple conversation or small change today could help prevent a serious fall tomorrow.  Below are a few related articles to spread awareness.

• Simple Tips to Prevent Falls
• Resources for Fall Prevention
• 15 Surprising Things That Can Increase your Risk of Falling
• Advice for caregivers on how to cope with anger and challenging behaviors
• How Caregivers Stay Organized

Memory Cafe’s are free and safe spaces to bring your loved one with some form of cognitive decline or memory loss.  They offer a sense of community, connection and meaningful programming.   Please use the following link to find a memory café’ near you.

Memory Café’ Directory

• The Empowered Caregiver Series and additional Educational Webinars from the Alzheimer’s Association:  More details HERE
• Caring for the Caregiver webinars are offered by the Executive Office of Aging and Independence (AGE).  This free, virtual series offers support, connection, resources and tips to caregivers on a variety of topics.  Click here to sign up for upcoming webinars.
• Join us on September 29th from 10-11am for Springwell’s Resource Hour.  Connect with other caregivers, enjoy coffee & snacks and learn about new resources.  Springwell, Inc. 307 Waverly Oaks Rd. in Waltham – Suite 205.  All are welcome! Contact Jen Murray at 617-926-4100 with any questions.

• Seniors helping Seniors Caregiver Support Group –
  
  The 3rd Tuesday of each month @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm

  This informal facilitated support group, open to family members caring for a loved one, will allow you to share openly about your current caregiving challenges in a confidential and safe environment. The support group meets monthly via Zoom. All those who RSVP at least one day prior to the meeting will be sent the Zoom link on the morning of the support group meeting date.

  RSVP Now 
• The Alzheimer’s Association is a wonderful resource, offering numerous caregiver support groups.  You may contact their 24/7 hotline (800-272-3900) to inquire about the best option for you or visit their webpage linked here.      Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Groups
• LGBTQIA+ Aging Project through Fenway Health offers support groups, training, education and resources.  LGBTQIA+Aging Project
• For local caregiver support groups, please visit your senior center’s website or newsletter for the most up to date listings.
• Find NAMI Family Support Groups here.
• You may also find a caregiver support group by using Mass.gov.  Caregiver Support Groups – Mass.gov
• The Charlotte & Richard Okonow Parkinson’s Family Support program through Jewish Family & Children’s Services helps families live as fully as possible while managing the many challenges of Parkinson’s disease.  Find out more about their support groups and music and movement classes here Parkinson’s Family Support with JF & CS