“Keeping our seniors, safe, healthy and mobile” is the motto for Trumbull County Senior Levy Service programs that can be available to Trumbull County residents age 60 and over as provided by a 5-year property tax levy.

As I struggled on an appropriate topic for a column this week, an e-mail crossed my desk right in the nick of time that is a perfect fit with our Senior Levy motto, which is “healthy and mobile.”

For September, annually, the Ohio Department of Aging celebrates Falls Prevention Awareness Month. This year ODA is bringing back a campaign called Ohio Department of Aging’s 10 Million Steps to encourage Ohioans of all ages to walk at least one mile during September.

ODA is asking community partners to host local walking groups and events to raise awareness of older adult falls. Approximately one in three Ohioans aged 65 or older will fall this year.

The last time ODA promoted this program, Ohioans logged enough miles to travel around Ohio’s perimeter 21 times with 41 walking groups and 10,294 participants for 58 million steps far exceeding the goal set by ODA.

If interested in hosting a walking event, registration can be made at www.aging.ohio.gov/10millionsteps.

You can reduce your risk of falling by paying attention to what ODA calls the “Three H’s:” Your home, your health and your habits.

Home: Look for hazards in each room of your home, both small and large, that can cause you to slip or trip. Inspect rugs, floors, proper lighting and even assure clear pathways based upon the arrangement of your furniture.

Have you ever stubbed your toe on a raised door still that maybe can be removed by a professional? Don’t leave blankets on floors that can cause a fall.

Health: Have an honest conversation with your health care professionals to significantly reduce a risk of falling.

Have that conversation about using assistive devices or inquire about community balance classes. Sometimes vision loss, hearing loss, or even medications can cause increased risks for falling.

Habits: Our bodies change as we age, and so should the ways we do certain everyday tasks. Getting at least 15 minutes of simple exercise daily is one of the most important things you can do to reduce risks of falls to increase strength, stamina, and balance.

This does not mean you have to walk one mile a day but just move body parts. Body movement while sitting to keep the joints limber and mobile would be better than nothing at all. ODA’s website provides suggestions at www.steadyU.Ohio.Gov for that movement.

But wait. There’s more.

Slow down. Visually watch the footing ahead especially when stairs or curbs are involved. Be aware of wet or icy conditions that make the surface slick. When exiting the car, swivel so that both feet are on the ground before standing.

Once I stepped out of my car on wet dark asphalt only to find ice underfoot and down, I went, under the car. That hurried exit could have been a broken bone but luckily only my inner self was embarrassed.

Even Pets can be a trip hazard so be aware of their movements as well. A relative of mine broke a shoulder when the pet lunged at a squirrel causing her to hit the pavement.

Hydration is another key element.

Staying properly hydrated prevents low blood pressure, dizziness, fatigue and confusion. Start the day by filling up an 8-oz or more water vessel and have that available wherever you are. Thirst isn’t always a reliable early indicator of the body’s need for water.

Many people, particularly older adults, don’t feel thirsty until they’re already dehydrated. Headaches are often the result of not drinking enough water.

Several programs funded by Trumbull County Senior Levy help our seniors to stay healthy and mobile. Any community Senior Center or the St. Joe’s at the Mall location has scheduled physical programs that promote balance, movement, and also as importantly, social connectedness.

Senior Levy supports 10 senior centers throughout the county with various opportunities for movement and balance. Trying to take charge of your health, and attending a senior center even when dealing with chronic conditions, will help alleviate isolation and depression.

Adopting skills or reaching out to resources available at senior centers can help you manage your health, bring healthy habits to you and improve the enjoyment of living.

For any questions as to the programs offered at any senior center, either contact that senior center or my office.

For additional information regarding healthy habits for aging, the Ohio Department of Aging website (www.aging.ohio.gov) has many suggestions to assist.

For additional information, contact Trumbull County Senior Levy Administrator Diane Siskowic-Jurkovic at 330-675-7846 or sljurkov@co.trumbull.oh.us.