Volunteers sought to prevent dangerous falls in Wood County
Marshfield Clinic is seeking volunteers to serve Independent and Upright, a falls prevention program, in Wood County.
Marshfield Clinic and the Lincoln County Falls Coalition developed Independent and Upright to empower older adults to maintain their independence by staying safe in their home. Program participants are referred by a medical provider, family member, friend or self. The program is available for all community members in Lincoln and Wood counties.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that an older adult falls every second of every day. Among older Americans, falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries and death from injury.
Volunteers will visit the homes of older adults to identify fall risk factors and connect the individual to community resources to make safety changes. The ideal volunteer is interested in supporting seniors, possesses good communication skills, is empathetic and age 55+ (not required). Volunteers are required to complete the Marshfield Clinic application process and training.
If you are interested in receiving more information, or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact Laura Zelenak at Marshfield Clinic Center for Community Outreach at 715-221-8400 or visit cco.marshfieldclinic.org.