According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 25% of adults 65 and older fall every year. As people get older, a fall can cause serious issues like broken hips or head injuries. And approximately 300,000 seniors spend time in a hospital each year because of injuries from falling.
While you can’t always control what will happen to you out in the world, keeping your independence may mean taking extra precautions from a tumble. Here are a few tips for you to avoid falling:
Manage prescriptions
As an older adult, you may need medications to keep you healthy. But sometimes prescriptions can have interactions that leave you dizzy and unable to walk steadily. If the side effects of your medication prevent you from walking, you may want to talk to your doctor. He or she may be able to try an alternative drug or reduce your current dosage.
Stay physically fit
Regular exercise can help keep your strength up. The CDC also recommends balance exercises like tai chi.
Wear sturdy footwear
The proper shoes can help you keep a grip on surfaces. If you have slippery soles or uncomfortable shoes, you may put yourself at risk of slipping and falling. A tough rubber sole gives you extra traction so you can stay upright.
Keep glasses prescriptions up to date
If you can’t see, you expose yourself to the risk of tripping over an object in your path. Your glasses should bring your vision to 20/20 and help you notice any hazards in your way.
Safety precautions keep injury risk low
As you get older, a fall can become more and more dangerous. By taking extra safety steps, you can reduce your risk of falling and sustaining a severe injury.
