Elderly members of the community, their family members and caregivers, and students in the health, social work, or related fields are invited to a free Zoom session on preventing falls. Hosted by the Guam/Micronesia Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program through the University of Guam School of Health, the session will take place in two identical classes: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday and 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday.

“One in four older adults experience a fall every year. Though common, there are many ways to prevent falls, increasing the safety and independence of older adults,” said Margaret Hattori-Uchima, dean of the UOG School of Health and co-project director of the Guam/Micronesia Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program.

Participants will learn about common misconceptions about falling, risk factors that increase falls, and strategies to reduce falls. They will also be guided through the National Council on Aging’s Falls Free Check-up, learn what to do in the event of a fall, and have an opportunity at the end for a Q&A with Hattori-Uchima, who is a registered nurse who holds a doctorate in nursing.

The session aligns with Falls Prevention Week, promoted by the National Council on Aging in the month of September to spread knowledge, awareness, and resources about the risk of falling and how to prevent falls.

Register for these sessions at the following links:

6 p.m. - 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15: http://bit.ly/FP101520
10 a.m. - 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17: http://bit.ly/FP101720