Falls prevention is an important topic for older people. Being they will undergo physical changes and health conditions, this puts them more at risk to falls. There are six simple steps that will help prevent falls. The first step is to make an appointment with your doctor. It is important to be able to answer questions such as “What medications are you taking?”, “Have you fallen before?”, and “Can your health conditions potentially cause a fall?”. Having solutions to these questions will allow you to be more cautious. The second step is to keep moving. Staying active by taking part in physical activities will reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. The third step is to wear sensible shoes. Sturdy, properly fitting shoes will not be a safety hazard and can also help reduce joint pain. The fourth step is to remove any hazards in your house. It is important to clear the home of anything blocking the walking path such as wires, and to place non-slip mats on the floor so that you are not at risk of slipping on wet surfaces. The fifth step is to light up the living space. Whenever you are home, keep the lights on in each room you enter, in order to avoid tripping on objects that may be hard to see in the dark. The sixth and final step is to use assistive devices in your home. Use the hand rails when walking up and down the stairs, grab bars for the shower and a raised toilet seat when going to the bathroom. If you feel you may be prone to falls, see a podiatrist to discuss the best preventative options.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.