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Are You Setting Yourself Up for a Fall?

Falls are the biggest health risk for seniors today. Everyone takes a tumble once in a while but when seniors fall down it’s no laughing matter! We’ve all heard the story,

“I don’t know what happened. I was standing up one second and on the floor the next! I guess I just slipped!”

Falling down only takes a second but recovering from a fall may take years and you may never be the same again.

Did you know:

• 33% of people aged 65 + will fall once a year.
  
  
• Falls are the most common cause of injury and the sixth leading cause of death for seniors.
  
  
• Canadians spend about $3 billion a year on medical care for fall-related injuries.

Make the Changes to Prevent a Fall
After a fall, some elderly people who were fiercely independent will be forced to live in the care of their relatives or in nursing homes for the rest of their lives. Falls do not have to be a normal part of aging.

Are you at risk for falls? You can make changes to your living area and your behaviour that will help reduce your risk. We all know about the common sense risks to avoid: loose carpets, electrical and telephone cords, poor lighting, clutter on the stairs, showers or tubs without grab bars, etc. What about the risks you may not have considered?

Pharmacy Fainting?
Do you take three or more medications daily? Multiple medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness and balance problems. These side effects dramatically increase your risk of falling. Have your health care provider review your medications every six months.

Race to the Ringing?
Do you rush to get aringing telephone? Many falls occur at about the fourth ring! Cordless phones are the answer. Many are small enough to fit in your pocket.

Up and Over Before Breakfast?
What can make you a “Dizzy Lizzy”? Prevention of falls starts when you get up in the morning. Sit on the edge of the bed and make sure you are not dizzy before you stand up. Bending over to reach low objects can cause lack of balance. Buy a long handled “reacher” at a medical supply store. Eat breakfast every morning. Skipping a meal could make you dizzy. Low blood pressure causes black-outs. Ask your doctor about it.

Sight and Sound Symptoms?
Have you or those around you noticed a change in your hearing or vision? Dizziness can occur with hearing loss. Seeing obstacles is obviously the first step in avoiding a fall. You may be wearing the wrong glasses. Get your prescription checked regularly. How far are your glasses from your bed? When you get up to look for them, you are at your greatest risk of falling!

Flipping Over Fluffy?
Train your loving pet to stay out of your way. My wife’s aunt had a devastating fall over a sleeping cat. Your pet will learn very quickly which is their side of the road!

What does all this mean for you? Falling, slipping and tripping are not normal. If you’ve had a few close calls lately, talk to your doctor. Always remember: Falls are preventable!

Related Reading:

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Allen Unrau writes a weekly column relating to "reallife" seniors issues in Abbotsford BC. He is actively involved as a volunteer with numerous seniors' organizations in the Fraser Valley. He is a grandfather of eight and works as a licensed realtor specializing in seniors Real Estate...helping seniors and their families with the purchase or sale of homes in the Fraser Valley.

If you are listing your property for sale in the Fraser Valley, or to request further information, please call Allen at 1-604-855-0800 or toll free at 1-866-855-0800.