Safety is important for everyone, but it’s particularly crucial for seniors who risk serious injury in the event of a fall. Because senior bodies are typically more fragile than their younger counterparts, falls can actually lead to grave health issues or even death. In fact, falls are the leading cause of death and injury-related hospitalization for individuals over the age of 65.
Even though seniors should be concerned about falls and the injuries that can arise from them, they shouldn’t just stay in bed all day or avoid leaving the house. Life is meant to be lived well, so it’s important for seniors to find ways to prevent falls, eliminate risks and perhaps most important — build and maintain a strong sense of balance.
If you are caring for an older individual who may be at risk of injury in the event of a fall, there are some things you can do to help your loved one remain safe and sound.
Here are three tips to help seniors find balance!
#1 — Exercise and Physical Fitness
Moving the body is one of the best things seniors can do for their muscles, bones and cardiovascular systems, whether it’s through walking, jogging, swimming, biking, hiking or any other activity. Even gardening provides a number of health benefits through movement. These activities also strengthen one’s sense of balance. Exercise improves confidence in movement and builds body awareness, both of which are crucial when it comes to preventing falls. Moreover, exercise makes the body stronger so that if a fall happens, it’s less likely to lead to a major injury.
#2 — Monitor and Manage Medications
Certain medications can lead to drowsiness and-or dizziness, which can contribute to conditions conducive to falls. It’s critical for you to maintain an open dialogue about the medications your senior loved one may be taking, and how those meds might be affecting the body’s ability to remain upright. Check in with your loved one to see how the medications affect them, and be sure to consult with prescribing doctors on a regular basis to ensure that the medications are not leading to conditions that could cause a fall.
#3 — A Well-Balanced Diet
Good balance in one’s diet can also contribute to good physical balance on two feet. Vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods ensure that muscles and bones remain strong, making it easier for seniors to stand tall and avoid falls. Sugary snacks and processed foods should be avoided as much as possible because they can weaken the body and contribute to fatigue, leading to a lack of good balance. And of course, alcohol should be consumed in moderation to ensure that motor responses don’t deteriorate.
Learn More about Fall Prevention
If you are concerned about a senior loved one who may be at high risk for injury and-or death due to a fall, Always Best Care is here to offer guidance and advice. Our caregivers work with seniors in their homes to provide comfort, care and safety, and we are here to offer our expertise. If you’d like to know more about fall prevention and other ways to keep your senior loved one happy, healthy and safe, call us today at 1 (855) 470-CARE (2273) to schedule your FREE consultation!
