“I have fallen and I can’t get up!”…This recognizable quote has been the brunt of many jokes. Although this saying comes from a silly commercial, it highlights a real problem for elders: falls. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, more than one-third of seniors over 65 years of age fall at least once each year. Of those who fall, 20-30% suffer injuries severe enough to reduce mobility and independence for over a year.
Falls can lead to serious health problems. Of the 200,000 people who fell and broke a hip in a one-year period, 20% were injured badly enough that they needed to permanently move from their home into a nursing home and another 20% died within six months of this fall.
Most falls can be prevented, however, by making a few changes to your home and with yourself. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control suggest that you:
- Make your home safer. Install a night-light along the route between your bedroom and the bathroom. When you first wake up, sit on the edge of your bed to make sure you are not dizzy before you stand up. Be careful around pets, they can get in front of your feet or jump on you. Never carry a package that obstructs your view of the next step. Secure loose area rugs with double-sided tape or remove these rugs altogether.
- Begin an exercise program. Exercise dramatically reduces your chances of falling. It not only makes you stronger, exercise improves your balance and your coordination, e.g., yoga, swimming, and P.A.C.E. (People with Arthritis Can Exercise) classes. You are never too old to start an exercise program.
- Review your medicines. Have your physician routinely evaluate ALL of the medicines you take (including the ones that do not need prescriptions, such as cold medicines.) As you get older, your body may change the way it reacts to your medicine. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make your lightheaded or drowsy.
- Check your vision. Poor vision increases your chance of falling. You may be wearing the wrong glasses or have a condition such as glaucoma or cataracts, limiting your vision. It is vital to have your eyes checked regularly.
Of course, falls can occur anytime, any place and to anyone. Simple modifications, however, can substantially lower the risk of falling. Protect yourself with these minimal changes.
For more information on falls and preventing them, see the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at www.cdc.gov. You may also write them: 4770 Buford Highway NE, Mailstop K65, Atlanta, GA 30341-3724; or call: 770-488-1506.
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