50+ Lifestyles

Prevent Falls by Understanding their Causes

By Peggy Dykes
Community Relations Director
Milestone’ Area Agency on Aging

My friends are falling. My strength and balance is not as steady compared to when I was 50. My ankles are getting a little wobbly, and I don’t always watch how I step down from a curb. I’m one of those aging Baby Boomers who want to avoid a fall-related injury. I do ankle rotations every morning and wear more sensible shoes that give me a better footing when chasing after grandchildren. It’s not a matter of growing older, but a matter of growing smarter by understanding the causes of a fall and how to prevent them

The internet has great information about falls prevention; just pick the sites that are reputable like Mayo Clinic, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Health or National Council on Aging. Or talk with your doctor, health center or physical therapist. The more information you have, the more likely you will be to understand why you are unsteady and what steps you can take to avoid a tumble.

Falling is not always caused by tripping. A fall can be caused by the interaction of prescription medications, misuse of durable medical equipment, cognitive overload from hearing issues or lack of sleep, clutter in the home, along with declining flexibility and strength. More reasons are poor eyesight, walking on unstable surfaces and unsuitable shoes. Once you dive into this subject, there are many factors that can lead to a fall.

To learn more about the risk of falling and your options, there is a falls workshop coming up in September in recognition of National Falls Prevention Day. It’s free and will be held on September 22nd at CASI, 1035 W. Kimberly Road, Davenport, Iowa. Registration starts at 8:30 a,m., speakers begin at 9 a.m. with exhibit tables open til noon. Reservations are encouraged, by calling (563) 386-7477. Call Milestones for an event schedule (563) 324-9085 or go to www.milestonesaaa.org

Peggy Dykes is Community Relations Director at Milestones Area Agncy on Aging. She can be reached at (563) 324-9085, ext. 212 or at pdykes@milestones aaa.org.