One New Year’s resolution that hopefully all of us can work on is to prevent dangerous falls. Each year, especially in the cold and icy months, a large number of emergency room patients experience injuries from preventable falls. Some of these injuries are life-changing, especially for those beyond age 65.
According to the National Council on aging, every 11 seconds, an older adult goes to an emergency department for treatment from a fall injury. Many times, the falls can lead to fatality. These injuries can be prevented with finding balance, exercise, getting your vision checked, wear well fitted shoes and remove clutter and cords from floor. Here is an additional short list of ways to prevent falls:
Walk! Choose to use the stairs. Park far away from the store, church, or clinic entrance. Find a routine each day where you take stairs instead of elevators. Join other friends and socialize as you walk.
Check your medicines’ side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the possible side effects of medication. New medicines often lead to increased fall risk.
Remove tripping hazards. Never climb on stools or chairs that are not suitable. Use slip-resistant mats and update your bathroom, door handles, and grab bars. Wear shoes that won’t make you slip.
Use canes and walkers appropriately. Be sure to consult with your care team on how to use a cane or walker the correct way.
Falls are a hidden epidemic in our society, but we have these preventable ways to avoid them, including slowing down and thinking ahead. Let’s hope 2024 is good to all of you as you put your best foot forward this year. Maximum Care has a professional staff and experienced caregivers ready to help you. If you want more information on preventing falls or helping a loved one, we can be reached at (610) 264-2353. A list of services, locations and who we are can be found on our website page on www.maximumcareinc.com.
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