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Guest column by Martha Jones Sichko

Anyone can slip and fall, but when you’re a senior, a fall could lead to an injury and a long recovery. Individuals may question how to feel safer, especially at home. Albert Lea offers citizens a free daily reassurance call-in program with the fire department, checking in each morning to confirm their well-being. Now, a new, cost-free program is set to expand its presence in Albert Lea in the coming months, which can further enhance safety and support to seniors.

The Albert Lea Tribune has covered the Care Resource Connection, but the nonprofit and its local champion deserve greater attention and accolades. Led by Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Laskowske, the initiative aims to reduce 911 calls and frequent emergency room (ER) visits. After an emergency, firefighters trained as EMTs follow up with individuals to connect them with resources that help prevent future visits to the ER.

A standout detail it offers in a time of tight budgets: Laskowske discovered this program operates without taxpayer funds and relies instead on sponsorships.

I’ve attended healthcare and senior-focused meetings with Laskowske, and his dedication to improving health access, transportation, and independence for seniors is inspiring. In a world where the older population often gets overlooked, this public servant doesn’t just talk about change—he actively works to make it happen.

Albert Lea is fortunate to have Deputy Fire Chief Jeff Laskowske driving these efforts, but one person and a small nonprofit can only do so much.

More proactive approaches should come from billion-dollar healthcare providers. They gain from investing in long-term programs that help seniors stay healthy and independent by offering services and technology that support aging at home, ultimately reducing the strain on EMTs and ERs.

Consider the positive impact—if healthcare companies focused on reducing falls by providing tools, services, and technology such as grab bars, safety assessments, clutter removal assistance, motion-activated lighting, and wearable sensors that alert responders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are a leading cause of injury and death among older adults. Falls also cause nonfatal injuries, including fractures, brain injuries, and loss of mobility, which severely affect quality of life.

Seniors, next time you talk to your doctor, nurse, or insurer, ask how they can help you stay safe and independent at home. For more information on the safety programs, call the Fire department’s non-emergency number at 507-377-4341.

Prioritizing proactive senior care reduces preventable injuries, enhances independence, and fosters a safer, healthier environment for all individuals.

Martha Jones Sichko is a senior advocate fighting for affordable, accessible health care in Freeborn County.