Welcome to autumn, when leaves litter the lawns and visions of snow dance in our heads. For senior citizens, this time of year becomes even more challenging due to the difficulty of keeping up with raking leaves or shoveling snow. Many seniors find it necessary to hire someone to mow their lawn, shovel a driveway or sidewalk, or do their fall cleaning.

For some, the cost involved is beyond what they can afford. Many times this will result in a physically limited senior trying to accomplish the task without assistance. So many times, a senior trying to complete a simple task can lead to an injury that could have been avoided. It is also critical to keep sidewalks and entrances free from slippery leaves, ice and snow, reducing the risk of falls.

Quite often, an accidental fall in the later years can result in long term effects. And falls can be avoided! Each year more than 11,600 people ages 65 and older die from fall-related injuries. More than 60% of people who die from falls are 75 and older. Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures or head traumas that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death. Among people ages 75 years and older, those who fall are four to five times more likely to be admitted to a long-term care facility for a year or longer. Of all fall-related fractures, hip fractures cause the greatest number of deaths and lead to the most severe health problems and reduced quality of life.

Because seniors spend most of their time at home, one-half to two-thirds of all falls occur in or around the home. Most fall injuries are caused by falls on the same level (not from falling down stairs) and from a standing height, for example, by tripping while walking or trying to accomplish a chore task. The best prevention is to avoid doing the task that could result in a fall and to reduce home hazards. To make living areas safer, seniors should:

· Remove tripping hazards such as throw rugs and clutter in walkways;
· Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors;
· Have grab bars put in next to the toilet and in the tub or shower;
· Have handrails put in on both sides of stairways;
· Improve lighting throughout the home.
· Find assistance for tasks such as cleaning, changing light bulbs, raking leaves and shoveling snow.

The Hancock County Agency on Aging's Chore Services Program can provide assistance with these tasks for seniors living on their own. Not only does the program strive to make the home environment safer, but also encourages seniors to remain injury free and independent. Contact the Agency on Aging's Chore Services Program for assistance with these and other chores around the house, 419-423-8496.