The American Academy of Family Physicians states that falls are one of the major causes of fatal and non-fatal injuries in US citizens older than 65 years. Each year, a total of 2.8 million visits to hospital emergency rooms are made because of fall injuries such as fractures and head trauma.

There are a number of reasons why the risk of falls increases with growing age. Some of the most important factors are decreased body weakness, vision problems, difficulty in maintaining balancing and safety hazards at home.

Fortunately, with just a little effort, falls can be prevented easily. Here are a few strategies that can help you minimize the risk of falling.

Consult Your Doctor

There are many reasons why consulting a doctor is essential for fall prevention. Oftentimes, the medicine people take makes them sleepy and dizzy, which leads to an increased risk of falling. Discussing this with the doctor will help as they may consider weaning you off those medicines and prescribing new ones.

Moreover, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your health conditions. A visual or auditory health concern might’ve been the reason you almost fell that one time. Shortness of breath, joint pain, numb legs, and balance problems are also risk factors that your doctor may evaluate.

Eliminate Home Hazards

Evaluate your home for safety hazards. Do a walk-through assessment of all the rooms, stairways, hallways and bathrooms. Remove all risky elements such as boxes, electric cords, slippery mats and racks. If you notice loose floorboards or carpeting, have them replaced right away!

Moreover, installing a grab bar in the bathroom near the tub and toilet is an effective way to ensure fall-prevention.

Stay Active

Physical activity such as jogging, water workouts, and gentle exercise are an important part of a fall-prevention strategy as they help improve balance, strength, and flexibility.

In case you’re concerned about falling while engaging in physical activity, consider looking into monitored exercise programs. Hiring a physical therapist is also an option you can consider.

Light Up Your House

Keeping all corners of your home well-lit is one of the simplest ways to keep from tripping over things that are hard to see. Start by placing night lights in your bedroom, hallways, and bathroom. Consider installing glow-in-the-dark light switches and always turn the lights on before using the stairway.

Use Assistive Devices

Using a cane or walker for assistance while walking will ensure stability and improve your balance. You should definitely include them and other assistive devices, such as handrails, grab bars, and more in your fall-prevention strategy.

AvantGarde Senior Living and Memory Care

We’re a senior care community in Woodland Hills that provides assisted and independent living services for senior citizens. We provide personalized senior living and our main goal is to improve the lifestyle and well-being for our residents.

Contact us today for more information.