Fall Prevention!
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Get the facts to avoid a fall.
Falling is perhaps the single biggest fear of a senior adult. We are all aware of what can happen if we accidently slip or miss a step. But for older adults, the results from a fall are more immediate and concerning. Here are things to consider when rating the importance of prevention:
- One in five people over the age of 65 will experience a fall.
- Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries among seniors.
- Every 13 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency room for a fall.
- Every 20 minutes a senior adult dies from a fall.
- The most common injuries are fractures of the spine, hip, forearm, leg, pelvis, wrist and hand.
- Lower body weakness.
- Vitamin D deficiency. A healthcare professional can test for this.
- Difficulties with walking and balance. Whether this is a new problem or ongoing, it is important to seek physical therapy.
- Medications, especially those over-the-counter, can have side effects. Many can affect balance and how steady you are on your feet.
- Vision problems or outdated eyeglass prescriptions.
- Persistent foot pain or poorly made footwear.
- Broken or uneven steps.
- Throw rugs or clutter that can be easily tripped over.
- No handrails along stairs or in the bathroom.