How to Avoid Falling: A Guide for Active Aging and Independence »

Eric Fredrikson gives accident avoidance courses for hospital and corporate clients.

A practical, non-technical guide to minimizing the likelihood of falling. Includes taking stock of your health and physical abilities, medical conditions and medications, risk factors, exercises, fall-proofing a house and getting up after a fall.

Library Journal

Falls are a common and serious problem for older adults. Even minor falls can result in hip fractures or other injuries that may cause permanent disability or death. A Canadian accident prevention specialist who suffered a fall at age 68, Fredrickson (now in his seventies) has compiled this slim but information-packed guide on fall prevention. Among the topics covered are assessing health and environmental risks associated with falls; techniques for fall-proofing the home; negotiating stairs; avoiding hazardous situations like uneven sidewalks, escalators, and elevators; and what to do if a fall occurs. Physical fitness is essential to fall prevention, especially for those suffering from arthritis, Parkinson's, or osteoporosis, and Frederickson offers a program of nonstrenuous exercises to improve balance, strength, and flexibility; these are illustrated with easy-to-follow line drawings. Despite the prevalence of fall-related injuries in older people (one in three will fall each year), there are few books on this topic. J. Thomas Hutton's Preventing Falls: A Defensive Approach is written primarily for health professionals. Fredrikson's work is a highly recommended addition to senior health and fitness collections.-Karen McNally Bensing, Benjamin Rose Lib., Cleveland Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Preface

Introduction

Part I: Health


1. Taking Stock
2. Alleviating the Risks

Part II: Active Living


3. Benefits of Exercise
4. Walking
5. Fitness and Strength Exercises
6. Balance Exercises

Part III: How to Avoid Falling


7. Prevention and Protection
8. At Home
9. Outside and Away from Home

Part IV: After a Fall


10. Back on Your Feet
11. Recovery

Conclusion

Further Reading

Useful Web Sites

Index