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Healthy Living |
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Healthy
Steps
A Falls Prevention Initiative |
If you worry about falling, you are not
alone. As you grow older, changes in your body may increase your risk of
falling. This program will promote awareness of what your risks might
be.
"Healthy Steps" is a comprehensive "fall
prevention program" coordinated by the PA Department of Aging, the PA Department
of Public Welfare and the Area Agency on Aging of Somerset County.
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| Eligibility |
If you are 60 years or older or if you receive Medical Assistance
or are willing to participate in cost-sharing, you are eligible to
receive a screening and participate in the program. Income
review will determine cost-sharing percentage.
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| Tests
You Will Receive |
8 Foot Timed Get Up & Go - How long it takes to stand up from a sitting position in an
armchair, walk a distance of 8 feet, turn around, walk back to the armchair, and
sit down.
One Leg Stand - How long a person can stand on one foot without
using support.
Chair to Stand - In 30 seconds, how many times a person can stand up from and sit
down on a chair with arms crossed over the chest.
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| You Can Prevent
Falls |
Research shows that risk screening follow-up by health care providers
helps prevent falls. Low-cost changes to your home, such as removing clutter
or installing grab bars, can reduce falls. Many kinds of exercise - for strength,
balance, and flexibility - can reduce falls. If you do fall, you are less likely
to get hurt and you are more able to get up on your own if you exercise.
To find out more please contact a
senior center
nearest you.
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Flu Prevention
Vaccination Is Not The Only Way To Help Prevent The Flu |
These simple actions can stop the spread of germs and help protect you from getting sick.
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Avoid Close Contact |
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
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Stay Home When You Are Sick |
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick.
You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
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Cover Your Mouth And Nose |
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around
you from getting sick.
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Clean Your Hands |
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
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Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, Or Mouth |
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her
eyes, nose, or mouth.
Other good habits, such as getting plenty of sleep, engaging in physical activity, managing stress, drinking water,
and eating good food, will help you stay healthy in the winter and all year.
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Information obtained from the following sources:
Department of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention |
More informative links:
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