Avoiding Falls

Did you know that every year there are over 2.8 million seniors treated in emergency rooms for falls?

Did you know that falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and that more than 95% of hip fractures come from simple falls - such as stumbling over your own two feet?

The CDC says that people over the age of 65 have a greater chance of falling and that once you take your first fall, you are 50% more likely to fall again.

The is very serious because falling leads to a lack of independence. As we age, our bones are less capable of recovering and sometimes unable to fully recover from the trauma of a fall, therefore significantly increasing your care needs.

Don't let this happen to you!

Here are 5 things to be aware of in consideration of changes to your body that can lead to falls:

1. Your eyesight: Your ability to stay upright is based on your balance and ability to avoid obstacles.

2. Your flexibility: Stiffness in your hips and ankles interfere with your balance.

3. Your endurance: Standing and walking for reasonable distances will help you maintain stamina.

4. Your strength: Muscles loss begins in our 30s and less muscle means less strength and weaker bones.

5. Your desire: If you maintain the desire to be independent, then make it your mission. Stretch, walk, get your eyes checked and consider some balance exercises.

Additionally, take these steps to assure you're keeping yourself upright:

1. Make your home safer by decluttering your space.

2. Don't be afraid to use canes and walkers as needed.

3. Wear shoes that fit well (no open-backed shoes) and stay away from clothes that may tangle up in your feet, such as robes and long pants.

4. Understand your medication and it's side effects: dizziness + walking = falls!

5. Exercise regularly - Tai Chi is best for balance.

We all know that a body in motion stays in motion... let's keep it moving!