Brampton - Peel Public Health is working with other health units in Durham, Halton, City of Toronto and York Region, to encourage seniors to be active and stay independent.
"Older adults who maintain an active lifestyle are more likely to remain independent," says Gayle Bursey, Director of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention at the Region of Peel. "Walking, gardening, swimming and housework are great activities that seniors can do in their daily routine to stay active."
According to Ontario Injury Prevention Resource Centre, every 10 minutes in Ontario, at least one older adult (65 years and older) visits an emergency department due to a fall. Often, these falls will have a negative impact on a senior's independence and quality of life.
"It is never too late to become active or to benefit from physical activity," continues Bursey. "Exercise improves sleep, increases energy, builds strong bones and muscles, and reduces the number of fall-related injuries."
The best ways to prevent falls are to keep active, be aware of safety hazards and use assistive devices, such as canes, walkers and grab bars in the bathroom.
The Region of Peel delivers a wide range of programs and services to more than one million citizens every day. This includes ambulance services, public health, long-term care, child care, waste collection, recycling and disposal, water and wastewater services, Regional road construction and maintenance, social assistance and affordable rental housing. Regional Headquarters are located at 10 Peel Centre Dr., Brampton, ON. Phone Number: 905-791-7800.