Don't Fall For Christmas This Year

Colder weather means that more than just temperatures are falling -- sadly, so are Nova Scotians, particularly seniors.

Nova Scotians who are looking for last-minute gift ideas for the seniors in their lives are being encouraged to give something that can help keep those seniors safer from winter falls.

A list of suggestions -- such as plug-in night lights and slippers with sole grips -- is now on the Nova Scotia Health Promotion website. The list was created by Community Links, a group that works to prevent falls among seniors in Nova Scotia.

"Although seniors are especially vulnerable to falling, I know that I am also at risk -- we all are," said Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald. "By taking a few small precautions we can reduce the number of injuries due to falls this holiday season."

The list includes practical gift ideas such as non-slip mats, hand rails for the bathroom, and cordless phones. It is available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/ohp/ by clicking on the link called Don't Fall For Christmas.

The Community Links Preventing Falls Together initiative works with community coalitions to provide people with the information and tools needed to address falls and prevent fall-related injuries.

Nova Scotia Health Promotion has Canada's only government-funded injury prevention strategy. In 2003, the strategy provided $300,000 over three years to the Community Links Preventing Falls Together initiative. Since then, 12 regional fall prevention coalitions have been established throughout the province.

The coalitions organize tai chi classes for seniors and displays at health and seniors' fairs, and work with housing authorities and fire departments to implement safety measures.