Take a Stand Against Falls: How to Reduce Risk and Keep Older Adults Safe

It's no secret that falls are a leading cause of injury and hospitalisation for adults over the age of 65. In fact, one out of every four seniors suffers a fall each year.

This can often lead to decreased mobility, social isolation, and even death. Luckily, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of falling and keep yourself safe. In this blog post, we will discuss some simple tips that can help prevent falls and keep you healthy and independent!

One out of every four seniors suffers a fall each year

As we age, our risk of falling increases. One in four seniors falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in this age group.

There are a number of reasons why seniors are more susceptible to falls. Firstly, our physical strength and coordination often decline as we age, making us more likely to trip or lose our balance. Secondly, many seniors take medications that can cause dizziness or drowsiness, further increasing the risk of falling. And finally, vision problems become more common with age, making it more difficult to see obstacles in our path.

Falls can cause serious injuries, such as fractures or head trauma, that can lead to a decline in health and independence. In fact, one-third of seniors who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries that require hospitalization.

There are a number of things that can be done to reduce the risk of falling. Firstly, it’s important to stay active and maintain good muscle strength and balance. Tai chi and other balance-training exercises are particularly helpful in this regard. Secondly, have your eyes checked regularly and wear glasses or contacts if you need them. Thirdly, review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to identify any that may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Finally, make your home safer by removing trip hazards such as loose rugs and installing grab bars in the bathroom.

By taking some simple precautions, we can greatly reduce our risk of falling and maintain our independence as we age.

Falls can often lead to decreased mobility, social isolation, and even death

There are several things you can do to help prevent falls. First, stay active and exercise regularly to improve your strength and balance. Second, make your home safer by removing tripping hazards and making sure there is plenty of light. Third, talk to your doctor about your risk factors for falling and ask if there are any medications or treatments that could help reduce your risk.

If you do fall, it’s important to stay calm and call for help if you need it. Once you’re safely back on your feet, take some time to assess what might have caused the fall and make any necessary changes to help prevent it from happening again.

Here are some simple tips that can help prevent falls and keep you healthy and independent:

1. Get regular exercise. This can help improve your strength and balance, which can reduce your risk of falling. We recommend seeing an Exercise Physiologist - EP’s are trained to prescribe exercise to those with health conditions.

2. Make sure your home is safe. Remove any tripping hazards, such as loose rugs or electrical cords, and make sure there is adequate lighting throughout your home.

3. Have your eyes checked regularly. Poor vision can increase your risk of falling, so it’s important to have your eyesight checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.

4. Be aware of your medications. Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can lead to falls. If you’re concerned about the side effects of your medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

5. Stay socially active and connected to friends and family. Social isolation can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, which can increase your risk of falling. Staying connected with others can help you stay mentally and emotionally healthy