Falls Prevention Week: September 21-25,2020

• Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.
• Falling is not a normal part of aging—prevention starts with practical lifestyle modifications and staying active.
• Assess your risk of falling by taking the Falls Free CheckUp.

Proper Use of Car Seats

• Using the right car seat, the right way, will reduce the risk of injury or death in a car crash up to 82 percent. However, four out of five car seats are used or installed incorrectly.
• National Child Passenger Safety Week is September 20-26, 2020. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to use and install car seats correctly and register them with the manufacturer.
• To help ensure children are riding safely, find a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician to help you learn to use and install your car seat correctly.

Protect Your Health During Poor Air Quality Events

• Monitor air quality in your area and plan outdoor activities accordingly.
• Remember dust and cloth masks do not provide protection against wildfire smoke.
• Talk to your doctor and follow guidance to protect your health during poor air quality events.

Pharmacists Can Help Manage Chronic Conditions

• Three out of four Americans don’t take their medications as prescribed by their provider.
• Tailored pharmacy-based interventions can help patients manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or asthma.
• The pharmacist’s role may vary depending on the needs of the pharmacy and the local community. Speak with your pharmacist about the services available to you and your family.

Make It Count - 2020 Census

• Census data is used to distribute funding for over 300 federal programs, including more than $1 billion each year for Montana’s health care programs.
• Young children, people living in rural areas, and racial minorities, including American Indians, are at high risk of being undercounted.
• As of September 3, 2020, 40% of Montana residents still need to complete their census. . It takes less than 10 minutes to answer 9 simple questions that will shape your community for the next 10 years.  Please fill out your 2020 Census online,  or over the phone at 1-844-330-2020 before the deadline on Sept 30, 2020.

International Overdose Day

• August 31st is International Overdose Awareness Day, a global event that aims to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and stimulate discussion about evidence-based overdose prevention and drug policy.
• Some people might think prescription opioids are safer than alcohol or illegal drugs, but anyone can become addicted to opioids, even when prescribed by a doctor. Abusing opioids can lead to overdose, and even death.
• Learn more about overdoses and prescription opioids in Montana and how you can get involved to help end overdose deaths www.helpsavelivesmt.org.

Wildfires and Outdoor Activities

• Wildfire smoke can travel long distances causing poor or even hazardous air quality; placing your health at risk, even if you are not in the areas with wildfires.
• Avoid air pollution by keeping your indoor air clean; remember face coverings used to slow the spread of COVID-19 offer little protection against the harmful air pollutants in wildfire smoke.
• Know when to adjust plans for outdoor activities by paying attention to air quality reports and local guidance.