Aging is a natural process, and our goal is to ensure that seniors can maintain their health, independence, and quality of life as they age gracefully. By understanding the impact of falls, identifying common risk factors, and implementing evidence-based prevention strategies, we can reduce the risk of falls and their associated consequences.
Falls are more than just accidental events. They can have a profound impact on seniors' health and well-being.
- According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths among older adults.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls, resulting in over 3 million emergency department visits.
- Falls can lead to fractures, hospitalizations, and a loss of independence. They can also have psychological effects, including fear of falling, reduced mobility, and social isolation.
Common Risk Factors:
- Age-related changes, such as decreased muscle strength, impaired balance, and changes in vision, increase the risk of falls.
- Chronic medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and neurological disorders, can contribute to falls.
- Environmental hazards, including uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and cluttered living spaces, pose significant risks.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the importance of addressing these modifiable risk factors to prevent falls and promote healthy aging.
We urge each one of you to prioritize fall prevention as an essential component of healthy aging. We encourage you to consult with your healthcare providers to assess your own fall risk and develop personalized fall prevention strategies.
HOW TO PREVENT FALLS FOR SENIORS - BASIC TIPS
Stay physically active. Regular exercise improves muscle, strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility, making you stronger. With the approval of your healthcare provider, you may want to engage in activities such as walking, water workouts, hiking, swimming.
Get your vision and hearing screening regularly. As you age, the structure of the eyeball undergoes alterations that diminish visual acuity and the ability to see clearly in low light conditions. The inner ear is associated with balance, decreased hearing affects your ability to maintain balance and feel grounded.
Wear sensible shoes to guarantee correct positioning and alleviate pressure on the feet. By opting for sensible shoes, you can decrease the likelihood of encountering prevalent foot ailments like bunions, plantar fasciitis, and discomfort in the arches.
Remove home hazards. Eliminate any mess, including piles of outdated newspapers and magazines, particularly from hallways and staircases.
Install grab bars and handrails. Grab bars adjacent to toilets, bathtubs, showers as well as handrails in stairways and hallways, are essential getting on and off.
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