WILTON – A guide to resources in Franklin County that will help seniors avoid injuries from falls is available free at several locations.

One out of three people over the age of 65 falls every year. While most of the falls only result in a loss of dignity, others can result in injuries that lead to a loss of independence. Many falls can be prevented, and the guide is meant to help people learn what they can do and where they can turn locally for resources.

The guide is available at the Western Maine Community Action Service Center, Routes 2 and 4, and at SeniorsPlus, also on Routes 2 and 4.

The booklet includes a home safety checklist provided by NorthStar Emergency Medical Services. NorthStar also has a house call program, where an on-duty ambulance crew member will visit in a home to do a blood pressure check, a home safety assessment and discuss medical issues. Call NorthStar at 779-2025 for details.

In addition, information is given about local programs like the seated balance exercise program at SeniorsPlus, which meets at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. For more information, call 645-3315 or 888-234-3921.

“Annie’s Beanpole” is a private project to loan medical equipment like walkers and shower seats free to those who cannot afford it. For more information, call Betsy Judkins at 778-9665.

The guide is a project of SeniorsPlus, Western Maine Community Action, NorthStar Ambulance Services and the Healthy Community Coalition. Several local seniors also participated in the project, and Jacqueline Lizotte helped with printing and assembling of 600 copies.

For more information about the project, call Janice Daku, manager of the statewide Keeping Seniors Home program at Western Maine Community Action, 645-3764, ext. 5232.

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