A sudden fall can be damaging to a senior’s independence and ability to care for themselves. Studies have shown that more than one-third of people aged 65 and older fall each year.  and those who fall once are two to three times more likely to fall again. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries and are responsible for significant disability, hospitalization, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life.

In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that most fractures among older adults are caused by falls. That means it's

This means your risk for falling goes up every year once you are 65. Plus once you have fallen, you are two to three times more likely to fall again. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says that most fractures among older adults are caused by falls.

Here are four ways in which you can help your loved one to avoid falls.

1. Do strengthening exercises Daily:

Balance and coordination can be increased through regular exercise. The most effective exercises can be integrated into activities of daily living which make them a snap to do. Here are some examples:

• Hold onto the sink or counter top and balance on one leg while brushing teeth.
• While putting laundry away, bend the knees and then straighten the legs to build muscle strength.
• Keeping your posture straight and your eyes forward (don't drop your head) stand up. You can hold onto something for balance.
• Do leg raises while in a sitting position.

2. Create a fall proof home:

Making some small changes around the home is one way to decrease the risk of falls. This means removing small carpets or securing them to the ground, making sure cords from lighting and electronics are secured and removing clutter. Place things within easy reach and move items from the top shelves to lower levels will help. Modifying your home can also make it a safer place. This can include adding ramps and handrails. Wearing non-slip footwear in the house and not to walk around in stocking feet is also a great idea!

3. Understand medications:

Medications can have many side effects. Sometimes these side effects can take days or weeks to appear. Antidepressants and some anti-anxiety medications can have side affects like dizziness which will crat fall hazards. Always ask specifically about the side effects of each medication your loved one takes as well as they may interact together.

The good news is that some medications and supplements may help to prevent falls. A recent study found that vitamin D and calcium supplements may help to prevent falls. Don't forget that before giving your loved one any supplements you should check with your loved one’s physician. Supplements can sometimes interfere with the efficacy of prescription medications in people of all ages.

4. Bifocals are Tricky.

Bifocals may contribute to the danger of falling for those that wear them. Since multifocal and bifocal glasses can impair depth perception they make it difficult to navigate steps and raised surfaces. It pays to have two pair of glasses for your loved one. Have a single lens pair with a distance prescription and bifocals as needed at home for reading.

Have you found any helpful ways to prevent falls at home for your loved one? If so, we would be interested in hearing about them! Contact us at 225-272-1401.