Oswego County Falls Prevention Coalition Seeks to Build a Fall-Free Oswego County

FULTON – In the fall of 2013, nine health and human service organizations organized to form the Oswego County Falls Prevention Coalition. With the vision that “We will create a fall free Oswego County and support healthy aging by preventing falls through education and awareness”, the coalition applied for and received funding from the Health Foundation for Western & Central New York.

Chaired by Oswego County Opportunities and the Rural Health Network of Oswego County, members of the coalition include: Kindred at Home; Northern Oswego County Health Services, Inc.; Oswego County Health Department; Oswego County Office for the Aging; Oswego Health Home Care; Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP); St. Joseph’s Home Health; and St. Luke Health Services.

Since 2013, the coalition has focused its efforts in three strategic areas including:

· Physical Activity/Balance – Coalition members provide classes to assist those at risk of falls to improve their balance and increase their confidence that falls can be prevented, the majority of which are provided free of charge.

· Professional Development and Practice Change – Coalition members are working with medical providers to raise awareness of best practices for screening patients for falls risk.

· Community Education/Awareness – Coalition members are raising awareness of common items in the home and community that may lead to an increased risk of falls.

Leading up to National Falls Prevention Awareness Day on September 22, the coalition will be distributing a weekly story highlighting activities that could assist you in reducing the risk of falls for yourself or a loved one.

For additional information on falls prevention, or to learn more about the Oswego County Falls Prevention Coalition, please contact: Leanna Cleveland, Rural Health Network Coordinator for additional information.

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