Falls prevention and our ongoing wellbeing
3 Aug 2023
Falls prevention and our ongoing wellbeing
As our bodies change, it's important to recognise the shifting dynamics and challenges they may pose to our stability and balance. A significant issue that can impact us as we age is the heightened risk of falls. This risk is increased when factors including declining vision, impaired balance, and diminished mobility are combined with long-term medical issues. Falls are a pressing concern for seniors, with statistics revealing their prevalence as the leading cause of hospitalised injury and injury-related deaths among individuals aged 65 and over in Australia. Shockingly, in 2019–20, approximately 41% of hospitalisations for falls—totaling 54,600 admissions—were recorded for those aged 85 and over. However, we can take proactive steps to protect our health and reduce the chance of falling despite these obstacles. Here are some tips to help you consider how you can reduce your risk of injuring yourself by having a fall.Stay active
Regular physical activity can help us maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. Walking in the neighborhood, practicing Tai Chi in the park, or joining water aerobics classes at the local community center are excellent ways to stay active.- Chair exercises: Simple movements like leg lifts, arm circles, and seated marches can be done safely at home or in a group setting.
- Yoga: Practicing yoga can improve balance, flexibility, and overall body awareness.
- Gardening: Tending to a garden provides a gentle form of exercise that can improve strength and flexibility.
Home safety modifications
Conducting a thorough assessment of the home environment to identify potential hazards is crucial:- Placing non-slip mats or strips in the bathtub and shower.
- Installing handrails along staircases, hallways, and walkways provides seniors with additional support and stability.
- Swapping out standard toilet seats for elevated ones can make it easier for seniors to sit down and stand up. Ensuring that pathways throughout the home are clear of obstacles and clutter.
Vision and hearing check
Routine vision and hearing assessments are essential to identify changes quickly. Detecting and addressing issues like cataracts, glaucoma, or hearing loss promptly can improve awareness of surroundings and prevent accidents. For instance, scheduling an annual eye exam to update eyeglass prescriptions and checking hearing aids regularly for proper functioning can contribute to maintaining sensory function and reducing fall risk.Medication management
Regular medication reviews with your healthcare provider can help you identify any drugs that may increase the risk of falls due to side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. Always follow prescribed dosages and avoid mixing medications without medical guidance. Remember to:- Organise medications in a pill organiser or consider a Webster Pack to avoid confusion.
- Set reminders for medication schedules using alarms or smartphone apps.
- Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to identify any potential side effects or interactions.