South Heartland District Health Department

Maintain Your Independence

October 13, 2026

https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html

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https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html

Staying active, connected, and independent is an important part of healthy aging. Senior Health is one of the three priorities of our 6-year Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). By the end of 2030, our objectives regarding senior health are to:

• Improve access to resources to maintain successful independent living, and 

• Increase socialization and physical/social support

To keep you steady on your feet, we presently offer the following services through the Health Department:

Fall Prevention

Falls are a serious health concern for older adults.

• About 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older report falling each year

• A fall can result in injury, reduced mobility, loss of confidence, and increased dependence on others.

The There are many ways to reduce your risk of falling and maintain your independence.

Fall prevention may include:

• Improving strength and balance

• Staying physically active

• Recognizing fall hazards in your home and community

• Reviewing medications with your healthcare provider

• Having your vision checked regularly

• Choosing safe and supportive footwear

• Making your home safer

• Learning ways to move safely and confidently

Good news is that many falls can be prevented!

Could You Be at Risk for a Fall?

Take the Falls Free Checkup to learn more about your personal fall risk.

Tai Chi Classes Coming Soon

SHDHD is working on bringing Tai Chi classes to our communities.

Tai Chi uses slow, gentle movements to help improve:

• Balance

• Strength

• Flexibility

• Mobility

More information will be posted as classes become available.

You are a candidate for these classes if you are:

• 60 or older

• fearful of falling or have had a fall in the past

• Living at home or assisted living

• Not suffering from dementia

What will you learn?

• Simple and fun strength training that improves balance

• The role vision plays in keeping your balance

• How medications can contribute to falls

• Ways to keep from falling when out in your community

• What to look for in safe footwear

• How to eliminate falls hazards from your home

Foot Care Clinics

We currently offer Foot Care clinics in

• Hastings at 2015 W 3rd Street

• Superior at 447 N. Central Avenue

Regular foot care can help

• Older adults maintain healthy feet

• Support their ability to stay active and independent.

• Important part of maintaining mobility and overall well-being.

For information about upcoming foot care clinics, Tai Chi classes, or other senior health resources,

contact South Heartland District Health Department at 402-462-6211.

We look forward to helping you stay active, connected, confident, and independent.