Our speaker, Sandy Gatlin, will talk with us about how to reduce the risk of falls in our homes and in our lives. She'll bust some myths about falls, help us assess risks in our own lives, and provide practical, hands-on suggestions for minimizing the chances of a fall - either for ourselves or for a loved one.

Sandy is a master trainer for the SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) program. She is involved with the Pierce County and State Fall Prevention Coalitions and is a regular presenter on the topic of Fall Prevention and Home Safety.  In her early career, she was a medical assistant. She later worked in the retirement home where her parents lived, which drew her to a second career, this time in the senior care industry. She retired in 2011, but continues her work with seniors through the SAIL program. 

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Some follow-up information from Sandy:

Ice grips for walking/everyday wear - sample brand and style:

https://stabil.implus.com/products/outdoor-recreation/stabil-walk

Shower/bath strips for use on grab-bars and shower/bath floors: 

You'll find basic strips at Bed Bath and Beyond. I couldn't find the cute wavy ones Sandy brought to show us:

https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/7-5-inch-24-pack-applique-bath-tread-strips/3254364

You can still get flowers!

https://www.slipxsolutions.com/bathroom/appliques-treads

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Related Resources:

How to Prevent Falls at Home

https://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/guide/fall-prevention-strategies#1

Preventing Falls at Home

National Association of Area Agencies on Aging 
https://www.n4a.org/files/PreventingFalls.pdf

Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358

National Counsel on Aging Video: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall