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The Fall Factor with Seniors

The older you get, the more likely it is that you will take a fall. In fact, in some research studies by the federal government, one in three adults age 65 and older fall in their homes or on slick conditions outside. When a senior adult fractures a bone, the majority of the time it is due to a fall. Fractures caused by falls take longer to heal, steals your independence and can lead to hospital stays. For some people, permanent disability can result.

Hip fractures are the most common and leading injuries due to falls. Osteoporosis often contributes to the problem as it causes loss of bone density and strength. Half of all seniors never recover enough to live back home independently. That is a shocking total! Many are afraid of falling and therefore curtail their activities. This is the very thing that you should not do! Exercise is one of the best things you can do for healthy bones; a proper diet is another.

Speak with the Doctor about Falling

If you are worried about falling, talk with your doctor about it. Between the two of you, you can create a game plan of things to do to try and avoid injury from a fall. First of all, the doctor might suggest you work with a physical therapist to learn some exercises to work on your balance, strength, endurance and agility. With better balance, your chances of falling decrease.

A certain medical condition or even the medication to treat it could cause balance problems which lead to falling. You and your doctor can evaluate your health and prescriptions to determine if either of them could contribute to you falling. High blood pressure and the medications for it are common factors that contribute to falls.

Your vision becomes affected as you age; so does your sense of balance as well as your blood pressure. Have your eyes checked regularly and when you have to get up from a bed or a chair, move slowly. This will keep you from losing your equilibrium and avoid a s"pinning" room.

Precautions to Take to Prevent Falling

In addition to speaking with your doctor about your falling fear, there are other things that you can do to keep from falling. First of all, check your home for safety hazards like stacks of newspapers or magazines that could fall and trip you at any moment. Carpets without rug grips are not safe to walk on nor are tile flooring when it is wet. Keep electrical cords out of sight as they could trip you causing you to fall.

Do not feel ashamed of buying physical aids that will help you keep from falling. For instance, a cane or even a rolling walker can keep you upright and mobile. Install a bar in the bathtub and shower area and perhaps even a bench. Handrails for steps are handy for seniors too. Install brighter lighting so that you can see where you are going as well as potential obstacles.

All in all, prevention is the best cure for that fear of falling. If you adopt a healthy lifestyle and practice sensible fall precautions, you should hopefully get through your golden years without fracturing anything.