Tips

        Senior safety: Senior Independence, a division of Ohio Presbyterian Retirement services, says seniors can do plenty to cut down on their risk of falling in the home.

        Falls can cause serious medical and social consequences for seniors, who are more at risk for injury because of weaker bones and joints. Many older adults fear falling and being unable to reach a telephone to call for help.

        Here are some simple ideas to make home safer:

        • Set up a lamp or light switch that is easily reachable from bed.

        • Use night lights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways.

        • Keep a flashlight handy.

        • Install light switches at both ends of stairways and hallways. Install handrails on both sides of stairways.

        • Add grab bars in the shower, tub and toilet areas.

        • Use non-slip adhesive strips or a mat in the shower or tub.

        • Consider installing an elevated toilet seat.

        • Wear non-slip low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly. Don't walk around in stocking feet.

        • Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.

        • Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat. Remove rugs or runners that slip, or attach non-slip backing.

        • Paint outside stairs with a mix of sand and paint for better traction. Keep outdoor walkways clear and well-lit.

        • Watch your alcohol intake.

        • Get your hearing and eyesight checked regularly: Both affect balance.

        • Exercise regularly to improve balance, strength and flexibility.

        • Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some medications can cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Shelf help

        Honor thyself: Psyche's Seeds: The Twelve Sacred Principles of Soul-based Psychology by Jacquelyn P. Small (Jeremy P. Tarcher/Putnam; $25.95). Ms. Small, a spiritual psychologist, says it takes soul to discover — and uncover — the self.

Resources

        On video: The makers of Procrit are offering women undergoing cancer treatment a free video on managing the fatigue that often comes with treatment. Topics include strategies for combating anemia and fatigue, the benefits of exercise, proper nutrition for more energy and tips for talking to your doctor. The video, Finding Strength through Living, can be ordered online at www.procrit.com or by calling (877) 878-9767.

Calendar

        Answers: Dr. Stephen Brewer explains the benefits of combining Western medicine with complementary and alternative techniques at 6:30 p.m. June 19 at Trihealth Health and Fitness Pavilion in Blue Ash. Free with advance registration. Information: 985-6736.

        Decompress: Jane Toerner-Brown presents “Stress Management for Everyday Living” at 7 p.m. June 11 at the Mercy Fairfield Center for Health and Wellness. Learn how stress affects your physical, emotional and spiritual health, plus stress management and coping techniques. Cost: $20. Information: 956-3729.

Sitings

        For men: Log on to www.menshealthnetwork.org for news and resources about men's health issues, including heart disease, fitness and parenting issues and health activism. The site includes a bulletin board, resource list and extensive links to other Web sites about men's health issues.

        Contact Peggy O'Farrell by phone: 768-8510; fax, 768-8330; e-mail pofarrell@enquirer.com.

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