Fall Prevention, Cane & Walker Safety Events: Help Prevent Unnecessary Falls

What: Get free replacement cane tips and tennis balls for walkers and help prevent a fall for someone you love. Also, receive information about safe ambulation and fall prevention at Bassett's cane and walker safety events.

Why: Did you know? Every year, millions of people age 65 and older fall, and falling once doubles your chance of falling again. Also, more than 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falling. Equipment on canes and walkers to help prevent falls wear out and should be replaced about every six months. Worn cane tips can cause the cane to slip on the floor and walkers can get caught on carpet, increasing the risk for falling. Replacement cane tips and tennis balls to cover walker legs and help them glide easier on floor surfaces can help prevent falls.

When and Where:

• Tuesday, May 7, 9 a.m. 1 p.m., Oneonta Specialty Services, 1 Associate Dr., Oneonta
• Tuesday, May 21, 9 a.m. 3 p.m., Herkimer Health Center, 321 East Albany St., Herkimer

Details: The safety events are free and are offered by Bassett's Trauma Program and Bassett Medical Center nurse educators.