Episode 8: Staying Steady: Strategies to Prevent Falls and Promote Independence in Older Adults

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Canadians, with 20-30% seniors experiencing one or more falls each year. What many people don’t realise is that falls are not an inevitable part of ageing; they are often predictable and preventable with the right strategies. 

In this episode of ComForConnections, we explore how evidence-based balance training and fall-prevention approaches can slow symptom progression, reduce fall risk, and promote safe, confident ageing. We will discuss the key physical and environmental factors that contribute to falls, as well as practical ways to support safe movement and independence at home, including how ComForCare programs and trusted partner initiatives help build strength, mobility, and long-term wellness for older adults ageing in place.

Tune in for insights from Stephanie Wierzbicka, Manager, Director of Strategic Health Care Program at ComForCare Franchise Systems, LLC, and Linda Meek, Business Development & Relations Manager at ComForCare Home Care – Ottawa-Champlain. 

​​Click to listen to this episode:

About Our Guests: 

Stephanie Wierzbicka, Manager, Director of Strategic Health Care Program at ComForCare Franchise Systems, LLC

Stephanie has been employed with ComForCare Franchise Systems, LLC, an in-home care agency with 275 locations in the US and Canada, for 20 years. She is responsible for developing and managing various company programs aimed at improving client care and health-related outcomes. She is also a Matter of Balance Master Trainer. Numerous in-person visits to facilities, hospitals and seniors living in their homes have allowed her to understand and experience the unique needs of professionals and clients firsthand, and as a result, she has the unique opportunity to develop programs that can help older adults and their families live their best life possible.

Linda Meek, Business Development & Relations Manager, ComForCare Home Care of Ottawa-Champlain

Linda is the Business Development and Relations Manager for ComForCare Home Care – Ottawa-Champlain. She is dedicated to helping families ensure their loved ones are provided with the care and services they deserve in whatever setting they call home. 

Supporting and educating our seniors to navigate our Healthcare system is a strong focus point for Linda. She grew up in a small village in Scotland, where her grandmother taught her the importance of caring for others at a very young age, especially seniors living alone. 

After studying Gerontology, Linda worked in Senior-centric organisations for over 20 years. She has met and befriended many Seniors and their Families in her 17-year journey as Executive Director in various retirement homes in the Ottawa area. Linda has served as a Board Member and Educator for the Ontario Retirement Communities Association, Board Member for the Council on Aging, and various committees. Linda currently serves on the Algonquin College advisory committee.

Show Notes:

• The prevalence of falls in Canada and their impact on older adults’ health, independence, mobility, and long-term quality of life.
• Practical strategies to consider safe movement, meaningful activity, and daily independence for older adults at home. 
• Actionable insights for ageing services professionals on implementing evidence-based fall prevention and risk-mitigation approaches across community and home-based settings. 
• Key resources and tools to help older adults remain independent, confident, and safe at home.

Episode Resources:

• Fall Prevention program – Gaitway Program (ComForCare)
• Transitional Care Program (ComForCare)
• Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC): Seniors’ Falls in Canada  Infographic
• Otago Exercise – Video Library
• Ageing in the Right Place: Supporting Older Canadians to Live Where They Want (NIA)
• Preventing Falls at Home (NIA)
• National Council on Aging (NCOA)
• STEADI – Older Adult Fall Prevention (CDC)

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