By Kelly Stalnaker
According to a 2021 CDC study, falls caused over 38,000 deaths among older adults. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries and can lead to long-term disabilities and hospitalizations. While the risk of falling rises with age, many falls can be prevented.
It has been proven that healthy, physically active seniors are less likely to suffer a fall. So, engaging in regular exercise that targets strength and balance is one of the best overall ways to significantly reduce the risk of falling. In addition, it’s also important to maintain regular visits with all of your doctors. Falls can occur for many different medical reasons such as: poor eyesight, restless sleep, various conditions/illnesses, general weakness or even a vitamin deficiency. Include an eye and ear exam every year, as the ability to see and hear well are important for good balance. Routinely review medications with your doctor or pharmacist because as we age it becomes more necessary to treat medical conditions, as well as general aches and pains, but taking multiple medications increases the chance of side effects and risk of falling.
A healthy lifestyle is a great place to start, but there are many other measures that can be taken. Thousands of older adults fall at home each year due to common household hazards, but prioritizing home safety can help prevent falls with just a few easy steps. Remove trip hazards such as throw rugs, cords or clutter and position furniture to create a path for easy movement throughout the home. Increase visibility by replacing burned out light bulbs as quickly as possible, and add nightlights throughout the home for safer movement in the dark. Be mindful of how you store frequently used items; keep them between waist and shoulder height for easy accessibility without the need for a step stool.
More than 80% of falls in the home occur in the bathroom, so consider purchasing shower seats, grab bars, and/or security poles for these high-risk areas. Falls from the bed are also quite common, but you can protect yourself with a bed rail, fall mat and/or bed alarm.
A large variety of innovative products are available nowadays to help prevent falls. The selection may seem overwhelming, but J&B Medical can help! We carry several different options such as toilet safety rails, shower chairs and benches, security poles, bed rails, fall mats, ramps, mobility aids and so much more! Stop by and chat with us about your safety concerns and check out all of the options on display in our showroom. We’re here Monday through Friday from 9 until 5 to answer any questions at 540 E John Sims Pkwy in Niceville. Or call us at 850-729-2559. And for more information about fall prevention, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/falls.
