Agency on Aging Area 4 is proud to introduce Live Strong and Safe, a free, online fall prevention course for for people 60 years and older, caregivers, and family members who would like to learn more about fall prevention.

This course gives you on-demand access to courses that will help you identify environmental, physical, and behavioral risk factors to reduce falls, expand on your fall prevention knowledge, and, with a focus on effective exercises to enhance your strength and balance, learn techniques that shift your mindset from fear to empowerment.

It’s designed to be accessible for everyone, especially those who are unable to attend in-person programs—ensuring that fall prevention support is available to all who seek it.

Check out the video below to learn more about the course!

Norovirus is surging in parts of the U.S. again. Here’s what to know about the stomach virus.

Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for 58 percent of such infections acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.

Norovirus infections are caused by a group of viruses that spread easily, with as few as 10 viral particles having the ability to make someone sick, health experts say.

How do you get it?

Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others by direct means, such as through sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also be spread through food, water or contaminated surfaces.

How long do you stay sick?

Illness caused by norovirus typically starts suddenly, with symptoms developing 12 to 48 hours following exposure to the virus. Most people get better within one to three days and recover fully.

But with 19 to 21 million illnesses each year in the United States, norovirus nevertheless causes on average 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations annually, mostly among adults aged 65 and older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency department visits, mostly involving young children.

Who’s at risk?

People of all ages can get infected and fall sick from norovirus. Young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea the top concern.

How can I protect myself?

Rigorous and frequent handwashing is the best defense against norovirus during the peak winter season, scrubbing the hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals. Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help.

In the United States, flu activity typically starts to increase in October, peaks between December and February, and then begins to decline through April and even May. Flu viruses tend to thrive in the cold, dry conditions of winter. The decrease in temperatures may also affect bacteria-fighting cells in the nose, reducing the power of our immune system to fight the flu and colds.

Although the CDC recommends getting a seasonal flu shot before the end of October, it's not too late to get your flu shot; as long as flu is circulating, vaccination provides protection. It generally takes about two weeks to build up sufficient flu antibodies. If you have questions about flu vaccination, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about it.

Besides getting vaccinated, even everyday actions can make a difference in helping to protect you against flu and other respiratory viruses. These actions include simple things such as avoiding close contact with sick people, staying at home when you’re sick, covering coughs or sneezes, and washing your hands often.

Most people who get the flu will not need medical care or antiviral medication. However, if you develop symptoms of the flu and are at higher risk for serious complications from the flu—or if you become very sick or concerned about your symptoms—call your healthcare provider.

How do flu, cold, and COVID-19 symptoms compare?

February is American Heart Month, a time when all people—especially women—are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health.

Catch the signs early!

Don’t wait to get help if you experience any heart attack warning signs. Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but others start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Pay attention to your body and call 911 if you experience:

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs. Other possible signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

What can you do to help prevent cancer? 

• Get screened: Know your family medical history and get recommended cancer screenings.
• Protect your skin: Limit exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation.
• Eat well: Eat a plant-based diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
• Limit alcohol and tobacco: Drinking alcohol and using tobacco have been linked to many types of cancer.
• Stay active: Physical activity is linked to a lower risk of several types of cancer.

Get more information about cancer prevention in the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Cancer Progress Report 2024, including facts about how modifying behaviors can impact cancer occurrence and outcomes.

Take the AACR Cancer Prevention Quiz to test your knowledge and learn more about cancer risk reduction.

During Black History Month, we honor leaders who consistently dedicate themselves to uplifting and supporting their communities. Through their tireless efforts, they preserve the legacy of those who came before and pave the way for future generations to thrive.

Click the button below to join one of many virtual events hosted by California AARP:

We’ve selected a variety of health and wellness classes for you through GetSetUp, an organization created by older adults, to help people 55+ learn new skills, connect with others, and unlock new life experiences. 

All those 60+ are welcome and workshops are free when using passcode "area4-ca". 

This material was funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - SNAP. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. The materials or product were a result of a project funded by a contract with the California Department of Aging.