Falls - Steps to Preventing This Health Risk

Falls are the leading cause of death from injury in those over the age of 65. It is becoming a significant concern with an ever aging population. The precipitating factors that contribute to this incidence are numerous. The decline in health of the individual after a fall is exponential, but much of the risk to falling can be managed by taking a thoughtfully preventive approach.

Many seniors have a fear of falling so they tend to decrease their activity levels which leads to a loss of strength and balance. Certain medications can increase the chances of falling by affecting balance and issues with vision may impair their safety in movement. In addition, there are obstacles in the home that can increase the fall risk. The loss of function from a decrease in activity is perhaps the most cyclical problem when it comes to safe mobility. So what steps should be taken to prevent this risk?

First off, assessing the potential obstacles in the home is crucial. Removing area rugs, taping down or running electrical cords along walls, lowering the mattress height, using only chairs with arms and installing motion-detecting lighting will all make for safer movement.

Second of all, consult with a provider that specializes in assessing home safety and can provide modifications. Companies such as Safe At Home, can comb through every room in the house and look for problem areas. They can help obtain safer furniture and install equipment in areas that necessitate the use of stabilizing aides.

Thirdly, keep the body moving! The bones, muscles and connective tissue remain stronger and more responsive with physical activity. This not only serves to prevent falls by keeping the body more stable, but if a fall occurs the skeletal structure has more integrity to prevent a fracture. Some combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility training will provide the most well-rounded program for overall fitness. It would be wise to seek out a supervised exercise facility for seniors where the exercise specialists are aware of the individual participant's health concerns. In addition, they can provide specific programs that address the heightened need for seniors to maintain balance. An important part of being balanced is the function of vision. Any corrective lense or glass prescription should be kept current so the surrounding environment is not distorted which can lead to misjudgements in movement and a potential fall.

And finally, emergency alert buttons should be strongly considered for those with existing health concerns. In the event that a fall occurs, emergency personnel are moments away and can save a life or help minimize the impacts from an incident. Following these tips can manage a serious threat to the population.