What you need to know about falls*
- 87% of all fractures in the elderly are due to falls.
- Falls are the number 1 cause of hip fractures.
- 1 in 4 older adults reported a fall in 2014.
- 1 older adult fall every second.
- Every 20 minutes an older adult dies from a fall in the United States.
- 1 out of 5 falls causes a serious injury, such as a head trauma, or a fracture.
- More than 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for nonfatal fall injuries each year.
The numbers are scary but research had identified that many risk factors that contribute to falling are modifiable. We have listed below ways to prevent falls.
Stay Alert!
- Take time to get up slowly from you bed or chair.
- Wear an alert device or always carry a phone – especially if you live alone.
- Know your medicines and their side effects.
- Watch those pets! Train them not to get underfoot or jump.
Stay Balanced!
- Wear low-heeled shoes that fit well and fully support your feet.
- If you have a walker or cane, use it! Also make sure it is fitted to you.
- Have your vision and hearing tested often. Even small changes can lead to balance problems.
- Regular exercise can keep you strong and flexible.
- Learn a few exercises to help with strength and balance.
- Learn how to get up from a fall, and then practice with someone.
Stay in your home!
- Keep those lights on. Make sure you have good lighting especially at the top and bottom of the stairs.
- Speaking of stairs, make sure you have handrails on both sides or install stair glide.
- Install grab bars and nonskid mats in your bathroom.
- Use as shower chair or bath bench.
- For more tips in the bathroom, click here.
If you want to learn more about how to prevent falls and how to make your home safe, click here to receive a free guide.
We can help you assess your environment and suggest ways to make it safer. We can provide the assistive and safety devices that reduce your risk of falling. Call now to schedule a free consultation – 855.357.7679.