The #1 cause of death from injury in seniors is preventable.
Yes, you read that right. The #1 cause of death from injury in seniors is preventable.
The sad reality is that 1 in 4 people age 65 and older will suffer a fall-related injury. Every 11 seconds an older adult is seen in an ER for a fall-related injury. According to the National Council On Aging, falls account for the majority of injuries for people age 65 and older.
As we become older, our balance, flexibility, and coordination suffer. This naturally leads to an increase in the chances that we will fall or trip over something. Falling is not a normal part of aging, and it can be prevented by taking a few simple steps. Don’t wait until it’s too late. It is much harder to recover from an injury than to prevent one in the first place.
However, most seniors don’t think they will be the victim of a fall, and it isn’t until after an incident that they begin to seek out help. Here are a few preventative measures you can take now to limit the chances of succumbing to a fall.
1. Be honest with your doctor.
After all, most of the time medications or chronic illnesses contribute to falling, therefore it’s important to report any dizziness, lightheadedness, or vision problems right away. Also make sure to mention joint pain or any problems with the feet, ankles, knees, or hips, as a problem in any of those areas can lead to a fall.
2. Look around your living space.
Identify any potential items or furniture that can contribute to a fall.
3. Pay attention to how you move.
Do you hold on to a wall or chair for support? Are you steady on your feet with good balance? Do you have trouble standing up or sitting down? Any of these can be an indicator that there is a deeper physical problem and it’s best to be proactive in addressing it.
4. Get out and moving!
As adults age, chronic illnesses and pain can play a large part in reducing mobility. However, it’s a common misconception that remaining inactive will lessen the chances of a fall, but the opposite is actually true. Daily physical and social activity helps to maintain flexibility, range of motion and keeps your mind working strong. Remember, it’s never too late to regain strength and flexibility.
Prevention is the best way to reduce fall-related injuries in seniors!
If you need advice or assistance in caring for an aging loved one, Nestvy is pleased to offer simple care solutions that are custom-made to fit you. Our services are paid for by the community care providers that we refer families to, so you and your family never pay a dime to use our services. Contact us for a simpler way to senior care.