A recipe to keep you moving Fig and walnut loaf.

RECIPE

Fig and walnut loaf

Recipe & Styling by Emma Reeves.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour or spelt flour 1 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 cup salted butter, melted 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup liquid honey or maple syrup 4 eggs 2 tsp vanilla 1 cup sour cream 1 orange - juice and zest 1 cup coarsely chopped dried mission figs (soaked in orange juice until softened) 1 cup coarsely chopped toasted walnuts

METHOD:

Preheat oven to 180° Sift flour, baking powder and baking soda in a bowl; set aside.

Using a whisk or electric beater, mix melted butter, sugar, honey, vanilla and orange zest, until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Add the sour cream to butter mixture, then fold in flour mixture, beating just until blended. Fold in figs and walnuts. Spoon batter into a greased loaf pan and add a few leftover soaked figs and walnuts for decoration.

Bake for 40 - 45 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in centres comes out clean. Cool loaf in pan for 10 minutes, then invert loaf onto a rack to cool completely.

Preventing falls in the home

PREVENTION IS KEY

Your chances of serious injury due to a fall increases as you age, and the consequences of a fall are likely to be more serious for the elderly. Those with reduced bone density from conditions such as osteoporosis or osteoarthritis are most at risk of serious injury from falls. Identifying potential hazards early and acting upon them is crucial to ensuring a safe environment at home. Taking preventative action will allow for safe mobility within the home and will go a long way to protecting you and your loved ones from potential serious injury.

WHY ARE THE ELDERLY AT GREATER RISK OF FALLING?

Medical conditions that cause unsteadiness or loss of balance are more prevalent amongst older populations. Low blood pressure, stroke, parkinson’s disease, arthritis and poor vision can all contribute. Additionally, some medications can also cause dizziness, drowsiness and/or unsteadiness. This can be compounded amongst individuals taking a combination of two or more medicines.

PLANNING AHEAD

There are many things that can be done to decrease the risks of having a fall. The following suggestions should be taken into account when assessing your home for potential hazards:

• Contact a health professional, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. • Remove loose mats or rugs that could present a slip or a trip hazard. • Do not wear socks on slippery surfaces such as bathroom tiles or polished floorboards. • Ensure all stairways and isolated areas, such as toilets and bathrooms have adequate grab rails installed.

USING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT

Products such as over toilet aids, shower chairs, walking canes, rollators and handybars all go a long way to ensuring safe movement around the home. Visit your local National Pharmacies to find out more about how the Making Life Easy range can help ensure safe mobility within your home. Making Life Easy – products that improve your life.