Falling is something that all people experience as we are learning to walk, or if we are engaged in sports. However, falling as an older adult can lead to many serious health conditions like hip fractures, broken limbs, or traumatic brain injuries. On top of this, we also tend to have longer recovery periods following an injury when we are older. Just going through a fall can significantly affect a person’s quality of life for the foreseeable future. Read on for some tips on preventing falls in loved ones.
Exercise Regularly
Balance is one of the reasons why many people end up falling. The best way to address this is by getting regular exercises that build on our balance, flexibility, and strength. If our muscles are strong and our body is flexible enough to catch ourselves when we stumble, that can be a significant step in preventing falls.
Get Adequate Sleep Each Night
A common description that we use to refer to someone who has inadequate sleep is that they are falling asleep on their feet. Similarly, older adults who are experiencing sleep deprivation can find themselves more confused and less aware of their surroundings. This means that their movement will be less coordinated, their response time is slower, and falls will occur more regularly. By resting our body, we are also resting our mind and allowing ourselves to function better, so make sure to get enough sleep each night.
Wear Comfortable and Sensible Footwear
This is actually quite commonsensical both at home and outside. Shoes are not just for protecting our feet, but they also provide much-needed support when we are moving around. This is why we should invest in a comfortable and supportive pair of footwear that we can wear every day. If possible, look for shoes that have non-slip options to better our chances of avoiding a fall.
Get Rid of any Potential Fall Hazards at Home
Our house should be a safe haven, but it can just as easily turn into a danger zone. Every once in a while, make sure to do a cursory check around the living area to make sure that any tripping hazards like loose carpets or wires are addressed and carefully stowed away to protect our loved ones.
Get the Best Senior Living at Discovery Village At Stuart
If you or your loved one is diagnosed with severe mobility issues, do consider moving into one of our senior living options. For the residents living in our community, choosing to live in a senior living community takes place for many reasons. Whether you need more help with your day-to-day activities, want to have more interactions with like-minded individuals, or simply no longer feel safe living by yourself, senior living options can be the step you need to live a worry-free life full of laughter and joy.
For more information on our different housing options and the programs that we offer to our residents, contact us by filling in this online form or by calling us at 772.362.9204. We will get back to you shortly with guidance on which solution will work best for you and your loved ones.
