The Wellness Corner
3 John 1:2 – “Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually].”
Fall Prevention and Pain Awareness Month
September is both Fall Prevention Awareness Month and Pain Awareness Month—a time to focus on protecting our bodies and improving quality of life for ourselves and our loved ones. As a church family, let us be mindful of the importance of mobility, safety, and comfort—especially for our seniors.
Preventing Falls: Protecting Every Step
Falls are a leading cause of injury—especially among older adults—but many falls are preventable with simple steps.
Tips to Reduce Fall Risk:
- Keep floors clear – Remove loose rugs, cords, or clutter from walkways.
- Improve lighting – Use night lights in hallways and bathrooms.
- Install grab bars– In bathrooms and railings on stairs.
- Use non-slip mats– In tubs and showers.
- Use supportive footwear – Avoid slippers or shoes without grip.
- Stay active – Strength and balance exercises, like walking or stretching, help prevent falls.
- Review medications – Some can cause dizziness—check with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Schedule vision and hearing checks – Both play a major role in maintaining balance.
- Bone health – For the elderly, particularly women, it’s crucial to speak with your healthcare provider about the importance of increasing calcium (1200 mg/day – 600 mg via a supplement and 600 mg via diet (e.g. dairy products)) and vitamin D (1000-2000 IU/day) intake as it can help protect against osteoporosis (bone thinning) and reduce the risk of fractures from falls.
Pain Awareness: Don’t Suffer in Silence
Chronic pain—whether from arthritis, nerve issues, back problems, injuries, or other causes—can affect your mood and mobility. But there are ways to manage pain and live fully.
Tips for Managing Pain:
- Talk to your doctor– There are many over-the-counter painkillers available, such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen. However, it’s important to be cautious not to overuse them, as this could lead to serious health risks. Don’t ignore persistent pain. If your pain persists for more than three days, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider about your pain level and treatment options—there may be more relief available than you think.
- Use healthy coping strategies– Prayer, worship music, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques can help ease emotional and spiritual burdens.
- Stay physically active within your limits– Gentle movement can reduce stiffness and improve circulation.
- Connect with others– Sharing your struggles helps ease the burden, provide strength, encouragement, and accountability.
This September, let’s commit to taking care of our bodies—whether it’s strengthening our steps or seeking relief from pain. And as always, let’s walk in wisdom, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
If you have any questions or concerns, please consult your healthcare practitioner.
Stay well and be blessed,
Dr. Funmi Kayode (MD) and Dr. Bukola Folorunso (PharmD)
