Each year, one in every three adults age 65 and older suffers from a fall. Winter weather increases the risk of falling, especially outdoors. We see evidence of this at the Hospital of Saint Raphael regularly.
Fortunately, there are simple steps older adults can take to reduce their risk of falling and protect their independence. Among them are:
· Regular exercise, especially exercise that increases leg strength and improves balance. (Check with your doctor for what’s right for you.)
· Reviewing medication with your doctor or pharmacist to reduce side effects that can make you dizzy or drowsy.
· Annual eye exams and updated eyewear to ensure the best vision.
· Home safety measures, such as adding grab bars and railings; reducing or eliminating tripping hazards; improving lighting; and for those who live alone, consider a personal emergency response service like Lifeline.
· A diet that includes the right amount of calcium and vitamin D.
· Screening and treatment for osteoporosis.
For seasonal hazards, the following can help achieve a non-slip winter:
· Wear shoes with soles that provide plenty of traction on slick surfaces.
· Wet shoes can make flooring slippery. Dry your shoes as you go inside or change into a dry pair.
· Ask for help with snow removal from stairs and walkways, bringing in the newspaper and mail, and other outside tasks.
· Avoid carrying large bundles so you can better see where you’re going and keep your hands free so you can hold on to handrails.
· Avoid rushing. Always give yourself plenty of time to get to where you’re going.
· Know how to properly get up from a fall. Instructional videos on the Internet include “How to Get Up After a Fall” by Dr. Dorothy Baker, R.N., Ph.D. (www.learnnottofall.com/content/sitemap.jsp).
· Establish a routine of “checking in” with someone each day.
Education is critical for older adults, since the Centers for Disease Control points out that the risk of falling and being seriously injured increases with age. For older adults, that makes the old adage of “an ounce of prevention” the right prescription for their future well-being.
Dr. Gerard Kerins is Section Chief of Geriatric Services, Hospital of Saint Raphael, including the Senior Assessment Program and Project ElderCare, a primary care service, with a new location at 2080 Whitney Avenue, Hamden.
