Tips for Preventing Falling Injuries
One in four adults over sixty years of age will experience a fall. Elderly fall prevention is important to reduce the risk of falling accidents, as they can lead to serious injuries or even death.
- One out of five falls causes serious injury, such as broken bones or head injuries.
- Over 800,000 individuals a year are hospitalized from fall injury, most commonly due to head injury or hip fracture.
- Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries.
- More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling accidents.
Here are a few proven ways to reduce the chances of falling and how to better handle a fall should you experience one.
Walk Every Day
Going for a walk on a consistent basis is a great way to help yourself avoid falling. Walking has been shown to boost bone health and reduce the onset and symptoms of osteoporosis. Because it is a low-impact exercise that requires no special equipment and can be done nearly anywhere, walking is a convenient and safe exercise option for most people who want to improve their overall balance and increase the strength of their most important leg muscles.
Know Your Medications
Medications and the effects they can have on your body are one of the most common causes of falling. Be sure to thoroughly research any medications that you take, including over-the-counter medicines, and take note of potential side-effects that could cause you to lose your balance or be impaired in any way as you move. Also be aware of the potential results of combining any of your medications or if the effects of drinking alcohol could cause any additional complications.
Wear the Proper Shoes
Wearing the proper footwear is one of the most effective ways to help in elderly fall prevention and reduce the risk for falls. Try to find shoes that have soles that won’t slide on flat surfaces and are designed to have a strong grip. Shoes with low heels are also a good way to go, as they keep your feet closer to the ground and help you to remain stable.
Evaluate Your Eyesight
It’s easy to fall behind on eye exams, especially if you have always had good vision or currently use corrective lenses. With that being said, an eye exam can go a long way when it comes to reducing risk for falls, as the quality of your vision can change and may not be as good as you think it is. Even a slight decrease in vision over time can cause balance and orientation issues that can lead to falls.
These are just a few of the many simple and proven ways to reduce your chances of falling and sustaining injuries as a result. By wearing the proper footwear, being aware of the effects of your medications, maintaining clear eyesight and getting regular exercise, you’ll be fully prepared for any circumstances during which you could be susceptible to a fall.