Retire VA 24 - 28

20 weeks. Basically, classes are " going on
all the time. "
And, of course, it isn't just falls that
threaten us as we age. Scams are especially
prevalent in older populations
where people are more vulnerable.
Keiro.org has recognized some familiar
scams and lists them thusly:
* Requests to wire money or send
concealed cash payments.
* A person rushes you to send money
or personal information.
* Requests to send more money after
you have complied.
* Requests to verify personal information
online.
* Becoming isolated by a new friend
or a new caregiver.
* Beware of " grooming, " when a
scammer tries to build a trusting
relationship with you.
* Being asked to buy gift cards and
send them to the caller.
Robbie Boyd at LOA in Roanoke specializes
in scam prevention.
The National Institute on Aging suggests
the following to help prevent falls:
* Ensure there are handrails on both
sides of any stairs, and make sure
they are secure. Don't let anything
28 Retire-VA.com / RETIRE-VA 2025
you're carrying block your view of
the steps.
* Ensure there is good lighting with
light switches at the top and bottom
of stairs and on each end of a
long hall.
* Keep areas where you walk tidy.
* Check that all carpets are fixed
firmly to the floor, so they won't
slip.
* Don't use throw rugs or small area
rugs.
* Don't walk on wet floors.
BATHROOMS
* Put grab bars near toilets and
showers.
* Place nonskid mats on surfaces that
get wet.
* Leave a light on in the bathroom at
night.
BEDROOMS
* Put night lights and light switches
close to your bed.
* Keep a flashlight by your bed.
* Put phone near your bed.
KITCHEN
* Keep kitchen items in an easy-toreach
place.
* Clean spills immediately.
* Prepare food while seated when
possible, preventing fatigue.
OUTDOOR SPACES
* Make certain front steps are not
broken or uneven.
* Add non-slip material to outdoor
stairways.
* Clear yard debris.
* Install a grab bar near the front
door.
* Turn on your porch light at night.
* In the winter, treat walkways with
an ice melt.
OTHER LIVING AREAS
* Keep electrical cords out of your
way.
* Arrange your furniture away from
where you walk.
* Buy sofas and chairs that are easy
to get into and out of.
* Keep items you use often at waist
level.
* Don't stand on a chair or table to
reach something that's high.
* Know where your pet is whenever
you're standing or walking. Pets can
trip you.
* Keep a list of emergency numbers
in large print near landline phones.
http://www.Keiro.org http://www.Retire-VA.com
Retire VA 24

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