One out of every three people in the United States experiences a fall, making it a leading cause of elderly injury. Research shows that falling is a top fear in retirement-aged people, and that fear can hinder their desire to participate in daily activities, which can significantly decrease their quality of life. In order to help loved ones reduce their risk of falling, it’s important to assess their overall health and consider making changes to make them feel more confident in their footing. Read on to find out how we can help prevent falling.
What causes falls in the elderly?
There are many reasons that people fall. The most common reasons it happens to people over 65 are:
Muscle weakness due to age
Foot deformities
Cardiac issues
Brain disease
Hypotension, or a rapid blood pressure drop
Peripheral neuropathy
Balance problems due to inner ear issues or vertigo
Cluttered home environment
Low eyesight causing trips
Why is it important to prevent falls for the elderly?
For elderly people, a fall can be a big deal. In fact, every 11 seconds, an elderly American is treated in an emergency room for an injury caused by a fall. They are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for people over 65. Sadly, some falls can also lead to injuries that make people more susceptible to future falls. That’s why it’s so important to prevent falls in the elderly!
How can I help prevent falls?
If you are getting to your golden years or if you’re caring for someone who is elderly, here are some effective methods to ensure they avoid falls:
Regularly check in with your doctor to assess sight and hearing
Check in with your podiatrist to make sure your feet and ankles are healthy
Clear the house of any clutter or tripping hazards
Install grab bars or railings in the house to maintain balance
Enroll in strength, balance, or exercise programs to keep balance and strength
Discuss medications with your doctor to ask if they will make you dizzy or increase your chance of a fall
Use a walker or cane
Wear shoes that provide support and keep your feet cushioned
Talk to your family members so they know the risks of falls and can help
Falling can be traumatic for our elderly population, so the last thing we want for our loved ones is to experience a painful fall! If you have any concerns about their balance, foot strength, mobility, or risks of falling in general, consult with our podiatrists at Tipton & Unroe Foot & Ankle Specialists. With years of experience and access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatments, our foot doctors can provide high-quality, compassionate podiatric care! Request an appointment at any of our offices in Louisville, La Grange, and Bardstown today!