When we were younger, we made fun of those awful TV commercials where the older lady wailed: “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.”
These days, for many of us, it’s not so funny any more. Each year more than 25,000 older adults actually die falls and millions more are injured.

As we age, many factors increase out instability. These includes arthritis, weakening bones, inner-ear problems and diabetes.

Experts say one of the best ways to avoid falling in to recognize some of the most common danger zones:

Getting out of the tub or shower – We all now the phrase “slippery when wet” and we all know the wettest place in any home is the bathroom. If you have a tub, consider using a tub mat or applying one of the many non-slip coatings for tubs and showers that are available today. You might also want to consider installing a grab bar on the wall to help you get into and out of the tub.

Just walking down the hall – Loose rugs and slick hardwood floors can cause falls. Check the common walkways of your home for hidden hazards.

Getting out of bed – Most of us aren’t really fully awake when we first get out of bed in the morning. Some medications can increase the chances of dizziness when you first arise. Take you time. Sit up, perhaps do some stretching exercise to make sure you have a clearer head before getting your feet under you.

Wearing high-heels – While this is primarily a concern for women, there are some boots that can present challenges for either gender. Wearing high-heels or other types of footwear can increase your risk when walking in unfamiliar places.

Have you been keeping up with all your vaccinations?

Experts estimate that nearly 66% of Baby Boomers over 65 have not yet had their shingles vaccine. More than 40% haven't had a tetanus booster in the last decade.

Hey, we're not indestructible. In fact, our age bracket is one where shingles, the flu or other viruses can have serious consequences.

Do yourself a favor. Consult with your doctor about getting your flu shots annually, a tetanus booster every 10 years and by all means, make sure you've had your shingles vaccine (even if you've already had a shingles outbreak).

If you’re concerned about your health (and what Baby Boomer isn’t), the 2017 Senior Health Report is available from the United Health Foundation. Best of all, it’s free!

Visit AmericasHealthRankings.org to obtain your copy.

BTW – the healthiest states for Boomer Health are Minnesota, Utah and Hawaii. The 3 “unhealthiest”: Mississippi, Kentucky and Oklahoma.

The report is based on this definition of health from the World Health Organization:
“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

Vaping – the practice of smoking using an “electronic cigarette” has been touted as a safe alternative smoking, but is it really?

If you are a current tobacco smoker, the answer is – it’s safer than regular smoking, but it’s not safe.

Studies have confirmed that those who vape are 30% more likely to development chronic lung disease than those who don’t smoke at all. There are also preliminary reports that vaping may present other health problems.

So, the healthiest response would be – not to vape!

If your last experience with marijuana was in a dorm room with a towel stuffed under the door back in the 1970s. You’re probably aware that a lot has changed!

Currently, one of the elements in marijuana, CBD (short for cannabidiol) is being touted as a treatment for arthritis, stress, PTSD and more!

Here’s what you need to know:

1.) You won’t get high from CBD. The element in weed (or grass, as Boomers used to call it) that gets you high is THC. The CDB products being sold over the counter (and over the internet) contain less than 0.03% THC. That’s so the products can remain legal in states that have not yet legalized marijuana (for medicinal or recreational purposes).

As we age, many of us develop cataracts. However, many of us aren’t even aware it’s happening. Here are a few tips to keeping your eyes healthy:

1.) Cataracts most typically become a problem for people in the 60s and 70s, but doctors say they can develop much earlier, so be mindful of that once you get past 50.

2.) Because cataracts develop slowly, most people don’t realize how cloudy their vision has become. Make sure your see your optometrist regularly.

3.) One of the key symptoms that indicate you may have a problem with cataracts is if you see halos around lights. Again, always check with your optometrist.

Finally, cataract surgery has made tremendous strides in recent years. It is not painful. It may feel a bit uncomfortable because we’re hard-wired not to like anybody messing around near our eyes, but 4 out of people who’ve had the surgery say it was easier than they thought it would be.

Medical researchers are proving something the Italians have known for centuries – cooking in olive oil can be the healthiest choice!

Studies show that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can help clear toxins from the brain that contribute to Alzheimer’s and other dementias. However, be careful when shopping as most oils marketed as “extra virgin” don’t really get the job done. Expert recommend buying your olive oil from California growers because that state has imposed a stricter standard for labelling olive oil “extra virgin.” They also recommend buying oil in darker bottles as light can breakdown the healthy components in EVOO.

There is evidence that a daily regimen of low-dose aspirin (what used to be called “baby aspirin” can reduce the risk of a first heart attack or stroke in those between the ages of 50 and 69. There is also some evidence that it may reduce the risk of colon cancer. Experts warn that such a regimen should only be undertaken by those with a high risk of heart disease and a low risk of bleeding.

As with any drug, do not begin a regimen of low-dose aspirin without consulting your doctor.

Hopefully, you’re really satisfied with your general care provider. But the experts say, if you’re starting to think he or she isn’t treating you the right way, you are probably correct and it may be time to find a new doctor.

Here are some warning signs:

• Dismisses your concerns, saying they’re all caused by age
• Says, “There’s nothing that can be done.” There’s always something that can be done.
• Doesn’t let you talk, interrupts or cuts your visits short.
• Keeps recommending treatments or specialists, but nothing’s getting better.
• Write prescriptions with a minimum discussion with you.

Cost should never be an object when it comes to protecting you from the flu. Flu deaths among people our age is on the rise.

Here’s a quick list of places you should check for low-or-no cost flu shots:

• Walgreen’s
• CVS
• Rite Aid
• Target (stores with a CVS inside)
• Walmart
• Your Primary Care Doctor
• Supermarkets (Several large chains offer them)