Falls are the greatest cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among seniors. This is because falls frequently result in serious injuries like hip fractures and head damage. At EliteHealth, we understand that educating seniors and their families about the facts concerning falls, as well as the steps that can be taken to assist decrease falls, can help seniors avoid a catastrophic fall.
Read more to learn about the steps you can take to help lower your risk of falling.
10 STEPS TO HELP SENIORS PREVENT FALLS
Millions of Americans may protect themselves from the terrible impact of fall-related injuries by learning the facts about falls and fall prevention.
Most falls result in problems with daily activities and can significantly reduce an older person’s quality of life. While falls are a severe problem among the elderly, there are a number of precautions that seniors can take to avoid falling or lessen the risk of harm following a fall.
1) MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A DOCTOR.
If you’re having trouble walking, have numbness in your legs or feet, ankle swelling, dizziness, difficulty breathing, feel unsteady, or have fallen in the recent year, see a doctor. These are all symptoms that most people feel in the moments leading up to a fall.
2) BALANCE ACTIVITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT
Yoga, tai chi, and other stretch-based workouts that improve balance and muscular coordination have been found to reduce the risk of falling in the elderly. These exercises are not only helpful in strengthening the body against falls, but they are also moderate and simple enough for elderly people to do.
3) ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Consider canes, walkers, wheelchairs, or scooters as assistance aids. All of these items can help to improve stability and prevent sudden falls.
4) CONSISTENT EXERCISE
In senior persons, exercise has been demonstrated to improve leg strength, balance, and prevent falls.
5) MANAGEMENT OF MEDICATION
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs both have the potential to create adverse effects or interactions, such as dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase the risk of a person falling. A drug should be discussed with an older adult’s health care practitioner.
People who take four or more drugs have an increased chance of falling.
6) ADEQUATE FOOTWEAR
Wearing the proper footwear can substantially reduce the likelihood of this occurring. Shoes that are the correct size and have a non-slip grip should be worn by seniors.
7) VISION CHECK-UP
For older people, vision is a major concern. The simple act of having one’s vision checked every year can significantly reduce the risk of falling. Many falls occur as a result of a senior’s inability to see clearly enough to avoid an obstruction.
8) HOUSE RENOVATIONS
Simple house modifications, such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars in the bathroom, enhancing lighting, and installing solid railings along the stairs, can help reduce falls.
9) PERSONAL ASSISTANT SERVICE
A company that specializes in Senior Personal Assistance Services can supply a qualified caregiver to come into the home and assist with daily tasks. A helping hand can often be all that’s required to avoid a serious fall.
10) SUPPLEMENTING WITH VITAMIN D
Vitamin D pills, according to the American Geriatrics Society, are an effective approach to avoid falls and assist elderly people to maintain their balance. Individuals above the age of 60 should take up to 1000 IU each day.
