Balance Your Life
Who is at risk for falling?
1 in 3 adults age 65 and older will fall this year…Although fall risk increases with age, falling down is NOT a normal part of growing older. As we get older, our bodies change. Many changes are expected although some may be related to other factors such as diet or illness. These changes not only create an increased risk for falling but also an increased risk for injury if you should fall. |
Factors increasing fall risks
Age above 50; as we get older our muscles get weaker, our bones lose strength, we are unable to move and react as quickly and often times, our vision and hearing are not as good as they used to be. These are all factors that often come with age and put older adults at increased risk for falling.
Other Factors:
- Debilitating conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, certain cancers and stroke
- Arthritis
- Multiple medications
- Mobility problems
- Previous falls
- Females are at increased risk for falling
- Dizziness, fatigue, illness, and weakness
- Confusion
- Recent surgery
The costs associated with falling
On average, the cost of a fall is over $19,000. This does not include any physician or specialty services.
Other Costs:
- Physical suffering and injury
- Secondary ailments such as infection
- Potential transfer to nursing facility
- Disruption of independent lifestyle
What can you do to decrease your risk of falling?
- Have awareness of the aging process and the changes that may occur such as decreased muscle tone, hearing and vision changes, and slower reflexes.
- Eat a balanced diet, enriched with Calcium (Bone strength) and Protein (promotes healing and muscle strength).
- Drink plenty of water (6-8 glasses a day), promoting good hydration and helping to prevent dizziness.
- Other preventative measures
- Minimize your risk factors
- Know your limitations
- Use assistive devices for mobility (canes, walkers, and wheelchairs)
- Fall proof your home
- Stay active
- Exercise routinely and do things you enjoy
- Be aware of danger signs when exercising
- chest pain
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- dizziness
- weakness
- Promote a healthy lifestyle
- Report all falls to your physician and a family member or friend
- Have routine health exams including hearing and vision testing
- Review all medications with your doctor and any side effects that may contribute to falling
- Be safe, smart and aware at all times!
Want to learn more?
Find out how to schedule a free, informative presentation at your facility.