In 2018, 27.5% of adults aged ≥65 years reported at least one fall in the past year (35.6 million falls), and 10.2% reported a fall-related injury (8.4 million fall-related injuries). From 2012 to 2016, the percentage of these adults who reported a fall increased, and from 2016 to 2018, the rate decreased.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “one out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.“
Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to help prevent senior falls:
Plan an Exercise Program
Staying active keeps muscles and bones strong and joints and ligaments flexible. Easy weight-bearing activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, may delay bone loss in osteoporosis.
Participate in free online exercises such as stretching, tai chi, chair yoga, or strength-and-stability.
Schedule Eye and Hearing Tests
You may be pinched for cash, but most insurance companies will provide at least part of the charges for these two tests.
It’s essential to detect any changes in sight and hearing that may cause you to fall. When your eyeglasses or contact lenses are ready for pick-up, take time to get used to them.
It can be tempting to take your hearing aid out at home, but wear it when you need it and make sure it fits well.
Monitor Side Effects with Prescriptions
I was taking a muscle relaxer, and it made me dizzy. I briefly blacked out and even fell on the floor and carpet a few times.
Go over your list of medications with your doctor and discuss how you can prevent falls.
Stand Up Slowly
If you stand up too quickly, your blood pressure drops and you may feel like you are going to fall. Take your time and be safe.
Use Appropriate Assistive Devices
If you are unsteady on your feet, you may need a cane or walker. Make sure that it fits well and that the wheels move smoothly. These assistive aids will help you when you’re walking in unfamiliar areas or on an uneven walkway.
Walkers tend to slide around. Adding a tennis ball to the bottom of the walker gives more stability, so you can still get where you’re going without worrying about falling.
Wear Supportive Shoes
Supportive shoes should have a low heel and non-skid soles. You may have to pay more for a proper fit, but when it comes to your health, you do what you have to do.
Purchase an Emergency Response System
You have probably seen the commercials where someone falls and can’t get up. This system works by having you wear a special necklace or bracelet with a button you can push to call for help.
Your emergency response system may also allow you to call if you fall outside the home.
Final Thoughts
There are so many enjoyable things to do, and you don’t want to be on the sidelines of life and miss your favorite things.
Try these tips and see how they work for you. Ask your doctor for additional suggestions. Purchasing an Emergency Response System gives you immediate access to help, and you can feel more confident traveling from place to place.
