Falls are one of the most common causes of injury and disability among older adults, but they are preventable. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of falling and stay healthy and active.
Keep your home tidy and well-lit. Remove any clutter, cords, rugs, or other tripping hazards from your floors and stairs. Ensure you have enough lighting in every room, especially at night. You can use nightlights, lamps, or motion-sensor lights to improve visibility.
Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. Avoid wearing slippers, sandals, or high heels that can cause you to lose your balance or slip. Choose shoes that fit properly, have excellent traction, and support your feet and ankles. You can also use shoe inserts or orthotics to improve your foot alignment and stability.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain your strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility. It can also improve your mood, energy, and confidence. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. You can also choose specific exercises that target your balance and core muscles, such as tai chi, yoga, or pilates.
Check your vision and hearing. Your eyes and ears play a vital role in helping you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid obstacles. If you have any problems with your vision or hearing, seek professional help and treatment as soon as possible. You may need glasses, contacts, hearing aids, or other devices to help you see and hear better.
Talk to your doctor about your medications. Some medications can affect your balance, alertness, blood pressure, or bone health. They can also interact with each other or cause side effects that increase your risk of falling. If you take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal remedies, talk to your doctor about how they may affect your fall risk. Your doctor may adjust your dosage, timing, or type of medication to suit your needs.
Use assistive devices if needed. If you have any difficulty with walking or standing, you may benefit from using a cane, walker, wheelchair, or scooter. These devices can help you move around safely and independently. You can also use grab bars, handrails, shower seats, raised toilet seats, or other aids to help you in the bathroom and other areas of your home.
Falls can happen to anyone at any time. Fortunately, our expert physiotherapists can help assess your individual fall risk factors by evaluating your physical condition, mobility, balance and strength. Based on our assessment, we will design a safe and effective exercise program that focuses on building your core strength, improving your bone density, and increasing your flexibility. Additionally, we can help with balance and coordination training.
Contact Advanced Physiotherapy and take the first step toward a fall-free life.