Preventing elderly falls is extremely important, because a fall can be detrimental to our health and our body as we age. Follow these simple steps to help prevent a potentially disastrous fall from happening to you or your loved one.
1. Learn about your bone strength: Ask your doctor to conduct a bone mineral density test and explain the results
2. Stay physically active: By exercising regularly you can improve muscles, tendons, and joints, increase flexibility and strength
3. Maintain your strength: Walking, climbing stairs and other mild weight-bearing activities may help slow bone loss
4. Get enough sleep: Drowsiness can make you more likely to fall, its important to get a good nights sleep
5. Know your medications and any side effects: Be familiar with any side effects like dizziness, or sleepiness and discuss with your physician
6. Have your hearing and eyes tested regularly: Small changes in hearing and sight may increase your risk of a fall
7. Be cautious with alcohol: Your balance and reflexes can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol
8. Stand up slowly after sitting, eating, or lying down: Your blood pressure may drop if you get up too quickly, take a measured pace.
9. Wear low-heeled, rubber soled shoes with support: Always avoid wearing just socks, or slippers and shoes with slippery or worn soles
10. Use a cane, walker, or walking stick to steady yourself: It’s especially important to use a walking aid in uneven or unfamiliar terrain, and when entering and exiting vehicles
And…always advise your doctor of any falls since your last visit even if you were not hurt!
