No Fear: Staying Strong to Prevent Falls in Seniors

Falling down is no fun, no matter how old you are. But for seniors, falls can be more dangerous than mere embarrassment or some bumps and bruises. Every year, more than a quarter of American men and women 65 or older experience a fall. Three million of them wind up in an emergency room. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent falling, at home and when you’re out and about enjoying your favorite retirement activities.

That last part is particularly important. Seniors who are afraid of falling sometimes “solve” that problem by avoiding everyday tasks and social activities that require movement. Who wants that lifestyle?! Learning how to prevent falls will give you the confidence to stay active and engaged so you can truly thrive.

Falls Can Be Risky Business for Older Adults

Many of the changes our body undergoes as we age increase our risk of falling:

• Diminished eyesight, hearing, or reflexes
• Poor balance due to heart disease, diabetes, or conditions that affect the nerves, circulation, or thyroid
• Mild cognitive impairment
• Sarcopenia (age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and functionality)
• Overly-low blood pressure when you stand up too quickly
• Certain medications

You might break a bone. And for seniors, broken bones can negatively affect ongoing overall health.

Take Preventive Measures

• Stand up slowly.
• Watch where you’re going, so you don’t slip on an icy patch, trip on a rug, or fall over a pet or your grandkids’ toys.
• Keep moving. Physical activity is essential to keep your body strong and limber. Exercise also helps prevent osteoporosis, a key factor in fall-related broken bones. Balance and strength exercises for older adults are especially useful.
• Fall-proof your home, with these room-by-room tips.
• Get your vision and hearing checked regularly.
• If you have a cane or walker, use it. Make sure it’s the right size and type for you.
• And eat a healthy diet, because proper nutrition is a strong defense against age-related problems that can lead to falls.

Happy Feet Help Prevent Falls, Too!

Your feet are literally your connection to terra firma, so it makes sense that taking care of them will help them take care of you. And there’s a bonus: foot care feels so good! Keep in mind that painful foot problems can affect your gait or balance. And it’s easier to fall if you’re wearing loose shoes, only a pair of socks, or high heels. Smart seniors eschew fashion for low heels and rubber or other non-skid soles.

Finally, Be Honest with Your Doctor

If you have a fall, tell them. And explain what happened. Even if you weren’t hurt, sometimes a fall can indicate a medical problem or a problem with medications you’re taking.

Meanwhile, be aware of your surroundings and do everything you can to maintain bone health, muscle strength, and balance so you can stay upright and enjoy everything life has to offer.

Magnolia Manor is Here if You Need Us

If you or a loved one do happen to experience a serious fall or injury, Magnolia Manor is here to help. Every Magnolia Manor campus is unique, but each of the three that include senior rehabilitation options offers a wealth of opportunities for seniors to regain their strength to continue living a full life. We’d love to show you around so you can see for yourself. Call us any time at 1-855-540-LIFE (5433) to schedule a tour.