IN Millcreek Summer 2016 | Page 70

NIAGARA network the nation according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Things to consider include: • Physical factors such as vision and balance problems, decreased strength (especially coming off of winter when folks tend to be less active), and low blood pressure. • Behavioral factors such as lack of physical activity over the winter, not using a recommended walker or cane, and simply not being aware of your surroundings. • Environmental factors such as footwear (loose fitting sandals and flip flops vs. sneakers or shoes with a back), uneven surfaces (curbs, gravel, bumpy lawns), and low sitting, unsteady lawn furniture Many falls do not cause injuries. But one out of five falls does cause a serious injury such as a broken bone or a head injury. These injuries can make it hard for a person to get around, do everyday activities, or live on their own. Many people who fall, even if they are not injured, become afraid of falling. This fear may cause a person to cut down on their physical activities and they may become weaker, which then increases the chances of falling again. If you experience a fall, especially if you are over the age of 65, contact your physician and get checked out! Scary Summer Scams By Tim “The Computer Geek” Prawdzik, President/CEO of TechnoBiz, 814.806.3445 and Pamela Marlowe, Better Business Bureau of Western PA, Erie Office, 877.267.5222 The summer months can also pose risks for your financial and personal information safety. Con artists change strategies for executing scams depending on the time of year, the weather, current events, etc. While the weather is nice, con artists will likely shift strategies from phone and email schemes to more door-to-door and in-person schemes. Watch for these red flags when communicating with a door-to-door salesperson: n High-pressure sales tactics n Claiming the offer is only good for today n Offers no written contract for the products/services he or she is selling 68 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Millcreek