The risks of falls increases with age. Every year, 2 million older adults are treated for fall-related injuries. Falls can be quite serious, especially among seniors whose bones and bodies are more susceptible to injury. Here are 5 fall prevention tips to help you stay safe:
1. Exercise regularly
The general consensus in the scientific community is that regular exercise is pretty much the best thing you can do for your health. Exercise helps you maintain balance, coordination, strength and stability. Maintaining regular, daily movement keeps your body in the best shape to prevent falls.
2. Eliminate tripping hazards
Most homes are filled with tripping hazards, like loose rugs, upturned corners or electrical cords. Consider making a conscious walk-through of your home and fixing those floor hazards that can trip your feet. Bathroom safety is also important. Make sure you have a non-slip surface in the floor of your shower or tub, and a non-slip bath mat for a safe, dry floor when stepping out.
3. Improve lighting
Improving lighting is a simple, easy fall-prevention strategy. Consider adding night lights to dark hallways. This is especially useful when the night lights are plugged into outlets close to the floor, so you can safely see where you step.
4. Choose the right footwear
The treads of old shoes can get worn down on the bottom, making them slippery. Wearing shoes with good treads gives your feet the traction they need to keep you upright. Also, consider choosing slippers with non-slip bottoms and anti-slip-grip socks.
5. Be mindful of mixing medications
Consider speaking with your doctor about the different medications and supplements you're taking. Some medications can cause side effects like dizziness or fatigue that increase your risk of falling.
1. Exercise regularly
The general consensus in the scientific community is that regular exercise is pretty much the best thing you can do for your health. Exercise helps you maintain balance, coordination, strength and stability. Maintaining regular, daily movement keeps your body in the best shape to prevent falls.
2. Eliminate tripping hazards
Most homes are filled with tripping hazards, like loose rugs, upturned corners or electrical cords. Consider making a conscious walk-through of your home and fixing those floor hazards that can trip your feet. Bathroom safety is also important. Make sure you have a non-slip surface in the floor of your shower or tub, and a non-slip bath mat for a safe, dry floor when stepping out.
3. Improve lighting
Improving lighting is a simple, easy fall-prevention strategy. Consider adding night lights to dark hallways. This is especially useful when the night lights are plugged into outlets close to the floor, so you can safely see where you step.
4. Choose the right footwear
The treads of old shoes can get worn down on the bottom, making them slippery. Wearing shoes with good treads gives your feet the traction they need to keep you upright. Also, consider choosing slippers with non-slip bottoms and anti-slip-grip socks.
5. Be mindful of mixing medications
Consider speaking with your doctor about the different medications and supplements you're taking. Some medications can cause side effects like dizziness or fatigue that increase your risk of falling.
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