According to the CDC, 10% of senior falls result in them restricting their activities for a day or more. Plus, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries, and almost 90% of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for hip fractures were caused by falls.
The reality is that as we get older, not only are we more prone to falls, but we're also more susceptible to injuries from them. This affects seniors twofold, so fall prevention is a must.
The good news is that there are already measures in place. For example, a fall prevention program can drastically reduce falls for older adults in Sparta, IL.
Are you wondering how? Then read on to find out more.
As we've said earlier, nearly all hospitalizations for hip fractures are caused by falls. Not only that, but falls are one of the leading causes of injury among seniors.
All of the following make it more difficult to recover from a misstep:
Additional things that can contribute to falls include medications that cause dizziness, balance disorders, or health conditions such as arthritis.
After a fall, many older adults develop a fear of falling, so this causes them to limit their activity. But this is very detrimental; not only does it lead to weaker muscles and poorer balance, but it also decreases their social connections.
So by addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of falling, fall prevention programs can break this cycle and help seniors regain confidence.
A fall prevention program is a structured plan that helps seniors stay safe and independent. Typically, it includes:
With the right fall prevention strategies in place, avoiding falls in seniors can be easily achieved. The key is consistency; even if you only make small efforts, if you practice them regularly, it can make a huge difference.
Now that we've discussed what a fall prevention program is, let's explore the ways one can help older adults.
As you might imagine, balance issues are one of the biggest contributors to falls. But the good news is that balance can be retrained, just like a muscle.
There are various balance exercises for older adults too. For example, there's heel-to-toe walking, which is walking in a straight line with one foot directly in front of the other to improve coordination and gait stability.
There are also single-leg stands, which strengthen stabilizing muscles in the ankle and hips. You can also do side-to-side steps; this lateral movement helps with agility, which is important for catching yourself when you stumble.
Tai chi and gentle yoga are good for seniors too. The slow, controlled movements can improve balance and reduce falls.
As we've said earlier, muscle weakness is a major risk factor for falls. So, focusing on functional strength training allows older adults to do exercises that mimic everyday moments and strengthen muscles. Exercises include:
Living an active lifestyle helps too. Whatever you do, it'll be easier to move confidently and stay active without tiring quickly.
Despite your best efforts, you may still fall sometimes. In that case, a strong body is better equipped to handle it with less harm.
Fall prevention programs lower injury risks by focusing on:
Mobility safety for seniors also includes practical safety tips. For instance, you can wear supportive shoes, avoid wearing slippery socks indoors, and use assistive devices if needed.
In addition, there may be an assessment of your home. Removing tripping hazards, putting in better lighting, installing grab bars, and having essential safety and security features can help immensely.
The beauty of fall prevention programs is that there are so many benefits. Additional ones include:
As a result, older adults will enjoy an improved quality of life.
To get started with a senior safety program, talk to your healthcare provider. They can recommend a program or evaluate your health conditions that could affect balance. They can also review your medications and prescribe safer alternatives if possible.
Plus, there are local resources, such as:
Otherwise, you can try at-home exercises. There are free online videos and written guides you can look up.
You may have realized that you're at a point in life where fall prevention programs may have little benefit, or it's too difficult to do fall prevention on your own. In that case, assisted living may be a good option.
You'll be in an environment that's specifically designed to prevent falls. That way, you can experience your golden years with peace of mind while living a resort-like lifestyle.
If you've been concerned about your safety, then look into a fall prevention program. It'll address reducing your fall risk in multiple ways, which means you can rest assured that you'll be safe and secure.
Otherwise, you can always relocate to an assisted living community. There, you'll be in good hands, with kind staff and a secure living environment.
To find out more about assisted living in Sparta, IL, contact us today. Addington Place of Sparta includes cable in all of our apartments so that our residents can explore a wide variety of programs without having to leave their living spaces.