Senior Health

Fall Prevention

Falls are a leading cause of injury, particularly among older adults. 1 in 4 adults over age 65 falls each year which can lead to serious injuries and loss of independence.   

Fortunately, most falls are preventable with simple changes in your environment, lifestyle, and health habits. Preventing falls can improve quality of life and help people remain active longer. Small changes today can lead to a safer, healthier life! 

Top 10 Fall Prevention Tips:

  • Remove tripping hazards (rugs, cords, clutter) 
  • Improve lighting in your home (hallways, stairs, entryways) 
  • Use non-slip mats in tubs/shower 
  • Install grab bars/handrails in your home 
  • Stay physically active! (walking, balance, strength, flexibility exercises) 
  • Review your medication list with your doctor or pharmacist 
  • Have your vision/hearing checked 
  • Wear proper footwear (supportive, non-slip shoes); Avoid walking in socks 
  • Maintain a balanced diet with proper hydration 
  • Use assistive devices (cane, walker, shower chair)

Programs We Offer:

Stepping On - Fall Prevention Program

7-week class that is nationally recognized for helping participants learn strategies to reduce falls by increasing strength, balance, and awareness. Local experts will bring information on ways to prevent falls relating to footwear, medications, eyecare, home adaptations, and personal strength.

Classes are 2 hours long and also include balance and strengthening exercises and tips to make your home safer.

Call Morgan at 319-385-0779 to find out more and to sign up. Space is limited.

lady doing a balance exercise with a chair
older couple walking outside

Walk with Ease - Walking Program

6-week exercise program developed by the Arthritis Foundation to help individuals become more physically active through walking. Participants walk together under supervision, learn skills to build healthy habits, and increase walking ability each week. 

Call Morgan at 319-385-0779 to find out more and to sign up. Learn more about Walk with Ease here.

Programs Through Our Partners:

The REC Center in Mt. Pleasant offers a variety of balance and exercise classes designed for seniors including a Senior Balance class, Silver Sneakers classes, and Chair Yoga. Call 319-385-2960 to find out more!

Blood Pressure Monitoring

Regular blood pressure checks are a simple step that can make a big difference in your long-term health. High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the “silent killer” — and for good reason. It usually has no symptoms, but it can quietly damage your heart, brain, kidneys, and other vital organs. Checking your blood pressure numbers could help save your life.

Why Monitoring Blood Pressure Matters:

  • Catch Problems Early: High blood pressure often has no warning signs. Routine checks help catch it before it causes damage.
  • Prevent Heart Disease & Stroke: Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Protect Your Kidneys & Eyes: If not treated, high blood pressure can lead to kidney failure and vision problems.
  • Manage Existing Conditions: If you already have diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol, keeping your blood pressure in check is even more critical.
  • Guide Your Treatment: Regular checks help you and your doctor decide if lifestyle changes or medications are working.

CARE LINKS Blood Pressure Program

The Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Program helps patients who need to monitor their blood pressure in between doctor appointments. Call 319-385-0779 to make an appointment and our staff will provide:

  • An automatic blood pressure monitor and batteries (free will donation)
  • Approximately 30 minutes of instruction, demonstration, and hypertension education
  • Handouts including a blood pressure log booklet
  • Assessment of any other needs
  • At least 1 follow-up call

We can also help you with:

  • Finding and connecting to community resources and services
  • Providing medication education
  • Navigating your health care needs
  • Helping fill out paperwork
  • Other things you need to improve your health!

Community Blood Pressure Screening Clinics

We currently provide free blood pressure checks monthly at these locations:

  • Fellowship Cup, Mt. Pleasant – 3rd Wednesday of the month at 11am
  • Salem Community Center – before the senior lunch, monthly date rotates
  • Veteran’s breakfast at the Veteran’s Hall, Mt. Pleasant – 3rd Friday of the month at 8am

If you need your blood pressure checked outside of these options, call 319-385-0779 to make an appointment at our office.

Foot Care

Your feet are the foundation of your body. They support your weight, keep you mobile, and work hard every day — yet they’re often the most neglected part of our bodies. Whether you’re young or aging, active or sedentary, regular foot care is essential for overall health and well-being.

Why Foot Care Matters:

  • Prevents Pain and Injury: Regular foot care can prevent problems like blisters, calluses, heel pain, and ingrown toenails.
  • Catches Health Problems Early: Many health conditions—including diabetes, arthritis, and poor circulation—first show symptoms in the feet.
  • Makes It Easier to Move Around: Taking care of your feet helps you stay active and do things on your own for longer.
  • Keeps Feet Clean and Comfortable: Clean, well-cared-for feet are less likely to smell, get fungal infections, or develop skin problems.

Special Foot Care Considerations:

For People with Diabetes: You’re more likely to get infections and wounds that don’t heal. Routine foot checks and professional care are critical.

For Older Adults: As people get older, their skin can become thinner and blood flow may slow down. This can increase the risk for skin sores (ulcers) or falls.

For Athletes & Active People: Wearing the right shoes, keeping your feet clean, and taking time to rest can help prevent foot injuries from overuse.

Programs We Offer:

Happy Feet Program

Foot Care Program available by appointment on Monday afternoons from 1-4pm at the Public Health office. Call 319-385-0779 to make an appointment. The cost is $10 per visit and includes:

  • Foot Care: Assess feet, Trim nails, Moisturize skin
  • Referral to podiatry if needed
  • Blood Pressure Check
  • RN available to assist with diabetic patients

Disclaimers: Staff are NOT able to fix corns, calluses, ingrown nails. An appointment with a podiatrist or your provider is needed for this.

Call us at 319-385-0779 for more information on any of our programs.