50+ Lifestyles

Preventing Falls Anytime of the Year

By Marie A. Wisely
Choice Home Health Care Inc., CPHQ-Agency Administrator

    In thinking about falls and times of the year in which they most occur, most people think about winter.  It is true, winter can be a dangerous time due to slick and snow covered walkways. However, summer falls can be just as serious and debilitating. Unfortunately, even a seemingly light fall can change the life of
an aging person. Our bones get more brittle as we age and become more fragile. If a fall is not treated properly it can lead to loss of
freedom and mobility. According to the National Institute of Health (2015), aging alone does not cause people to fall and poor weather conditions are often just contributing factors.  Common health issues such as; diabetes, heart disease, problems with circulation, thyroid, eye problems, nervous system and asthma are often cited as the root cause of falls. These health conditions affect balance, making the non-winter months just as worrisome (para 2). Also some medications have been known to make people dizzy causing them to lose their balance and fall.

Regardless of the time of year, taking small precautions can lessen the risk of falling. If you or a loved one have a health condition, learn and understand the symptoms and side effects.  Proactively look for and remove any trip hazards inside and outside your home and identify those every day tasks that put you at risk. When possible ask for help
from a loved one, friend or home health care agency when performing tasks that put you at risk. Home health care
agencies can provide affordable assistance on a one time or long term basis.

Studies show that falls are rare, however, it is very important to be proactive and protect yourself against falls.  Strategies include; strengthen your health by exercising and getting regular eye exams and physicals. Also wearing nonskid shoes may also help. To reduce the chances of breaking a bone if you do fall, make sure that you get enough calcium and vitamin D. There are many resources available on fall prevention, your family physician or provider is a good start, additionally, the Internet has a wealth of information.  Below are several good websites:

•  http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/falls.html
•  http://www.cdc.gov/Features/OlderAmericans/
•  http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358