Lancaster Kiwanis Club

The consequences of falling, especially in the elderly population can be devastating, resulting in fractures, disabilities, and death. Many of those who fall will never regain their independence and 40% will require nursing home placement. Surgical cost for one fractured hip is approximately $14,000, not to mention rehab, home services, etc. Fortunately, most falls can be prevented through simple lifestyle changes, risk identification and modification.

This can be achieved through education and community support. Lancaster Kiwanis, Saint Joseph's Hospital Falls Task Force and Brookville Lime have started a program to provide our community dwelling seniors with "Grit Bags". These small bags contain sand that seniors can carry on their person and use in the event they encounter an icy surface. Our winters in New Brunswick are very difficult for seniors.To date this small initiative has proved to be a huge success.

We are inviting other clubs to join us with this project. Information can be obtained from sherry@lancasterkiwanis.net

The total cost for this project was $230.00 for 1000 bags. I would like to submit this information to our website for other Clubs to consider.

Thank you,
Sherry Gionet
Secretary, Lancaster Kiwanis
Saint John, NB