As you grow older your risk of falling is likely to increase. With this comes the unfortunate possibility that having a fall could result in a broken bone or other health complications. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to lessen this possibility, so that you can feel more comfortable and more safe as you go about your day.
Staying healthy is essential if you are looking to prevent a fall.
Exercising can prevent falls by helping you to maintain your strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility. This can involve anything from vigorous physical activity like running or biking, or lifting weights, to more moderate forms of exercise such as walking, yoga, or chair-based exercises. It all depends on what you feel comfortable with. If you’re unsure whether a given exercise is safe for you, consider consulting with your doctor or physical therapist.
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is also important for staying healthy, as it keeps your body strong and gives you energy to exercise. Relatedly, staying hydrated is just as important, so make sure you are drinking the recommend 6-8 cups of water per day.
Getting enough sleep is another way to decrease the likelihood of a fall, as it ensures that you’re as healthy and alert as can be.
It’s crucial that you be aware of any variables that may increase you’re likelihood of a fall in the future. One such variable is medication. If you are taking medication, it’s important that you be aware of any side-effects or potential side-effects your medication may have that could increase your risk of falling. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure about the side effects of your medication.
Changes to your vision or hearing are another variable that may make put you at risk for a fall, as are any other pre-existing health issues that you may be facing. So make sure to discuss these things with your doctor.
It is also a good idea to let your doctor know of any previous falls and/or near-falls that you may have had, and what may have led to them. This will allow your doctor to suggest what strategies could be most effective in preventing any future falls.
Fall-proofing your home can make your life a lot easier in the long run. This means removing anything that you might think to be a tripping hazard. Loose rugs, electrical cables, and uneven floorboards are a few common examples. You also want to make sure that your home is adequately lighted, and that, if you are using stairs, that they are as safe as can be, with a proper handrail in place.
You also want to do a good job of fall-proofing your bathroom. You can do this by installing grab-bars near your toilet, and on the inside and outside of your shower or bath. You can also install non-stick mats in any areas that may get wet. It could also be a good idea to leave your bathroom light on during the night, or to install a motion sensitive light that will turn on automatically when you enter the bathroom.
Any time you leave your home it’s always a good idea to be aware of any challenges your environment may pose to your mobility.
Just as in your home there may be tripping hazards around, so make sure to keep an eye out. Also make sure to avoid wet and icy areas if you can. And, if possible, use salt, or sand, or some other method to clear the hard walking-areas around your house of ice. Always be sure to use a cane, or walker, or other walking assistance device if you feel you need one.
You also want to be sure to choose your footwear wisely. Try to wear comfortable, rubber-soled shoes, both in your house and outside. Also, when you are inside, try to avoid walking around in socks, and in slippers with little grip.
By following these tips you can reduce your chances of falling in the future. But if you do fall it’s important to have a plan. So make sure you have a friend or neighbor close by to help you if necessary, or that you have a personal alarm pendant or wristband that will allow you to call for help.