Prevent Slips and Falls

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Slips and falls now rank as the leading cause of injury deaths among people 65 and older. And, Missouri's rate of injury by falling is 31 percent higher than the national average. Here are some spring cleaning tips to help seniors prevent falls.

Spring Cleaning Tips to Help Seniors Prevent Falls


Clean Up Safety Hazards

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Evaluate the overall safety of your home and identify possible problems that may lead to falling. Here are some things you can do to make daily activities less challenging and safer:

  • Install handrails on both sides of stairs to support balance. Stairs should be in good repair, have strong, secure handrails, adequate lighting, and non-skid surfaces.
  • Make sure walking paths are uncluttered and well lit. Remove unnecessary furniture that obstructs safe walking. Scatter rugs should be secured or removed.
  • Adequate lighting is important throughout the house. Make sure you have a light near the bed that is in easy reach.

Bathroom

  • Add non-skid adhesive texture strips to the tub or shower floor to avoid slipping.
  • Remove all throw rugs that are not slip-resistant or use double-sided carpet tape to keep rugs from slipping.
  • Install handrails and/or grab bats on the bathroom walls, especially near the toilet, bathtub or shower to help maintain balance.

Game Helps Kids Learn About Nutritious Snacks

Looking for a fun way to get kids interested in making healthy snack choices?

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Check out the FDA's new Snack Shack in Whyville, with its interactive online games that help kids learn how to use the Nutrition Fact Label!

National Public Health Week 2106

Andrew County Commission Proclaims April 4-10th as National Public Health Week 

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Andrew County Commission Proclaims April 4-10th as National Public Health Week in Andrew County calling upon the people of Andrew County to observe this week by helping our families, friends, neighbors, for-workiers and leaders better understand the value of public health and adopt preventive lifestyle habits in light of this year's theme, HEALTHY MISSOURI 2030: MAKING COMMUNITIES STRONGER.

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Severe Weather Awareness Week

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March 14-18 2016 is Severe Weather Awareness Week.

Spring is the time for severe weather.

You can find videos and other helpful information at http://stormaware.mo.gov

You can also learn how to receive a weather radio from the county clerk's office and other tips to help you prepare for emergencies on our page here.