Falls Prevention is Key to Quality Longevity
September 25, 2020
Taking a stand on your health can be one of the most powerful tools for longevity. Falls prevention is key to quality longevity too. At Pisgah Valley Retirement Community, we are fortunate to have a gym on site for all independent residents to access. Not to mention the qualified staff trained to recommend specific exercises for improving balance with the goal being to reduce the risk for falls.
As we age, we are more likely to be at risk of falling. Weaker muscles, the brain is not as sharp, medication use and other physical and environmental factors affect how stable we are. One other factor that makes the risk of falling a serious situation is the fact that bones get more brittle with age and brittle bones take longer to heal which means more time and money towards rehabilitation. The best case scenario is that one would rehabilitate and eventually get back to their normal activities pre-fall, but that result can never be promised. Worst case scenario is in the event of a fall could be hospitalization and post fall injuries that lead to other complications including death.
Proactive measures to avoid a fall include looking for warning signs, staying physically and mentally active, eating a consistent diet, staying hydrated, managing medications and letting someone know if you notice a change in stability or balance.
Warning Signs
- Muscle weakness or frailty
- Declining vision
- Change of hearing
- Poor balance
- Injuries, stiffness, pain in the hips, legs or feet
- Relies on support when standing, sitting or walking
- Cognitive decline
- Newly diagnosed condition such as diabetes, Parkinson’s or hypertension
- Overuse of narcotics or alcohol Environmental factors that increase risk for falling include:
- Clutter everywhere
- Improper lighting
- Throw rugs
- No handrails on stairs, sidewalks or in bathrooms
- Loose wires or objects lying around
- Small pets could potentially lead to a fall if that animal is not trained well
By taking a stand on your health and being proactive about reducing falls, you can save time, money, stress and worry. It’s a lot easier to enjoy life and put in some sweat equity to remain stable and strong, rather than spend hours or days in pain trying to recuperate from a bad fall. After all, life is too short and if we’re aiming for quality longevity then falls prevention will be key.