Your wellness depends a lot on preventing falls
‘Help!! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!’
Everyone over the age of 9 has heard this expression stemming from a TV commercial years ago, in the 80’s I believe. You remember the one, the sweet little ole lady is lying on the floor with her walker on top of her. I think the commercial was for a life alert or something when they first came out. That became a catch phase that is still used today in jokes and conversations.
But how funny is it exactly? A doctor once told me after I had fallen and was complaining of being sore that when we age, we don’t bounce anymore. Funny but true. Kids can run, face plant on the floor, have a good cry and they are right back to running and laughing. Adults, not so much.
Here are some scary facts about falls:
1. Falls are the leading cause of injury in people 65 and older
2. 1 out of 4 older adults fall every year
3. Falls are the leading cause of fractures and head injuries in older adults
4. Falls are the cause of over 95% hip fractures which decrease the life expectancy of older adults.
5. You do not have to be over 65 to die from a fall.
The best medicine is prevention.
In your home, do not have clutter, cords or loose rugs on the walkways. If you must have your rug, like a lot of people do,make sure it is secured with non-slip backing or double-sidedtape.
Improve the lighting. Walking in the dark is asking for trouble regardless of your age.
Wear good shoes, no oversized shoes, sandals aka flip flops, or heels. Lord knows I would be begging to break my neck if I wore heels. Age is not a barrier in tripping over your own feet.
The all-dreaded word, exercise. There I said it. Seriously, being a couch potato will not cut it. We need to walk daily, and I don’t mean just to the refrigerator and back. Do real walking, get in a couple of miles a day. Not necessarily all at one time but get the walking in. Your body will thank you for it and your bones will be stronger. If you need to use an assistive device, there is no shame in being safe.
Absolutely do not take medications that make you sleepy or relax you then try to go for a walk or run or drive heavy equipment. We have all seen those warnings. Doing that is a big red flag begging for a fall to come upon you.
Keep that phone handy. There may be something to keep your phone attached to your hip, especially when going for a walk. It is better to be able to call someone for help than to lay on the floor or on the side of the road. See, I have shown you an excuse to keep your phone with you at all times if you’re not a teenager.
These are just the tip of the iceberg on fall prevention. Look it up, pay attention to your healthcare provider, and use the good sense God blessed you with to stay safe.
Simply Well Life 