Fall Prevention for Seniors

Slips and falls are common this time of year but falls are not limited to icy conditions, especially in the senior population. Falls can occur year round and accounts for 84% of injury-related admissions to hospitals for seniors. It is also known that 90% of falls resulting in injury are preventable. Here are some tips to help prevent falls:

– Make sure both feet are on the ground before getting out of the car

– Use large and spiked tips on canes in icy conditions

– When going from sit to stand, take 10 seconds before allow for blood pressure to normalize and to minimize dizziness

– Review medications with your doctor to avoid dizziness, especially new medications

– Use good footwear (closed toed, laced up properly, with good support either through cushioning of the shoe or orthotics)

– Use handrails when available

– Use aids when necessary such mobility aids, hearing and sight aids and medical alert services

– Get an assessment of your strength and balance at Form and Function Clinic. We can provide exercises and further tips to help minimize your risk of falling.  Engaging in regular physical activity can increase strength, balance and endurance and thus prevent falls.