Prevention Is Key to Avoiding Falls
Fifty years ago, author Erica Jong’s Fear of Flying was a much-ballyhooed New York Times Bestseller List book. Five decades later, older adults may have a different (although imaginary) title in mind—Fear of Falling.
The statistics on falls are staggering: According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 36 million falls are reported among older individuals annually. More than 32,000 of those tumbles result in serious injury. Emergency rooms across the US treat some 3 million for this kind of injury.
There are many causes of falls, so individuals may need to engage in some detective work to discover what specific situations may endanger them and the preventive behaviors and products that can minimize their likelihood of unexpectedly finding themselves on the ground.
5 Things to Know (or Do) About Preventing Falls
1. Medications can be problematic.
The side effects of some common medications can affect balance. According to Harvard Health, some drugs that treat depression, anxiety, diabetes, sleep problems, heart issues, and pain are among the top offenders. The danger is heightened in older adults because “according to a national health survey, a third of 45- to 64-year-olds and two-thirds of people 65 and older take three or more prescription drugs over the course of a month.”
If an older adult is concerned about a falling threat associated with medications, they should consult their primary care physician.
2. You will likely fall again if you’ve fallen once (or more).
Unfortunately, falling isn’t always a “one-and-done” problem. CDC research reveals that falling once doubles an individual’s likelihood of falling again. Bottom line: If a physical therapist or other professional has advised you to use a cane or a walker, do so—consistently. Many people resist adopting these devices because of embarrassment related to looking older, but sometimes, swallowing your pride can keep you safer.
3. Make the home environment as secure as possible.
The good news is that individuals can take many simple, inexpensive actions to ensure their living environments promote safety and stability. For example, sturdy, well-affixed grab bars can be used throughout the home— from the shower to near stairways. Grab bars can be secured to the side of the tub as sturdy anchors to support people when they step in and out of the tub or shower. Shower chairs and raised toilet seats are other bonus items.
4. Look with fresh eyes.
Although they may seem obvious, don’t overlook potential dangers in plain sight. For example, rearrange or secure and bundle cords so they’re not a hazard. Throw rugs are another common danger. If you have them, affix them with carpet tape.
5. Take advantage of fall prevention aids.
Performance Health features a wide variety of safety equipment to help seniors remain safer at home and prevent falls. There are safety solutions for every room in the house and outdoor areas.Which ones might make your home more secure?
Exercise is a Friend
“While it's not possible to completely prevent a fall, exercises that focus on balance and strength training can reduce the risk of falling,” according to Johns Hopkins Hospital.
YouTube offers many relevant videos, including ones with exercises, some of which can be made more straightforward or more complex with simple adaptations.
Helping West Virginia Residents Reduce Fall Risks
We at Visiting Angels have helped thousands of older adults remain where they want to be—at home. Schedule a no-charge, in-home visit from one of our advisors to learn more about our nonmedical services, including companion care. You can contact us at 304-214-5550 or by filling out our online contact form.