Did you know, falls are one of the main reasons why seniors are unable to remain living independently and risk factors increase with age. The majority of falls occur doing daily tasks while at home, and most are within the bedroom or kitchen.
There are four categories which contribute to a loss of balance:
- Biological – which are to do with the natural aging process; which can include muscle weakness, vision and balance impairment.
- Social and Economic Factors – Seniors who have lower income often have less access to support and medical services; in turn have increased risk for chronic illnesses.
- Environmental factors – could include lack of railings, clutter, flooring and lighting.
- Behavior – which includes dehydration, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity and not taking medication properly, wearing inappropriate footwear and clothing.
There are ways to reduce the risks!
- Keeping medications up to date with medical professionals – some medication combinations can create reactions. Be aware if certain medications make you feel dizzy, tired or light headed. If you have concerns talk with your pharmacists or doctor.
- Have vision checked regularity – contact your optometrist or doctor if you have double vision, difficulty seeing the ground and steps, struggle seeing in dim light. Wear a hat and sunglasses outside to reduce glare also avoid wearing reading glasses while moving around.
- An adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D – adults over 50 are recommended to take 800-2,00 IUs of vitamin D and 1200mg of calcium per day.
- Eliminating and reducing slipping hazards in and around the home. Remove throw rugs, have night lights, use non slip mats in bathroom, grab bars in bathroom if they are needed.
- Keeping up physical strength and activity – reduces the risks of falling and increase overall health. Starting small and increasing activity level can increase physical wellbeing for example; chair exercises and walking groups.
- If you have a small pet put a bell on them so they you can hear them, and reduce the chance of tripping over them.
- Use walker and canes if they assist you in getting around.
It is important to have a solid foundation; having proper footwear and foot care helps ensure your feet are taken care of. Avoid shoes that are worn out, not fitting properly and clothing that could get caught up while you are moving around. Proper foot care can take care of ingrown toenails, help with circulation as well as reducing discomfort.
After having a fall some seniors lose confidence and may stop doing activities that they once enjoyed, which can then reduce physical strength and increase chance of falling. There are some things that can be done to help with confidence after a fall which include; personal wearable alarm, installing hand rails in washrooms and stairs, removing obstacles in living area.
Also connect with people regularity so they know that you are doing well, and will come check on you if they haven’t heard from you.
Fall Prevention: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/injury-prevention/seniors-fall-prevention
Whitevalley Resource Centre would like to thank our sponsors, The United Way, and Interior Health.
