Stay Safe With Our Top 5 Fall Prevention Tips for Active Seniors
Accidental falls are a common concern among older adults, with millions seeking medical attention each year. However, we can take simple steps for fall prevention by understanding the potential risks involved.
Older Adult Fall Risk Factors
It isn’t just the loose rugs. What else creates fall risks for seniors?
- Muscle weakness
- Balance and gait problems
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Chronic health conditions like arthritis
- Certain medication side effects
It’s interesting to note that the fear of falling contributes to these conditions. If you’re afraid of falling, you won’t be as active. Before you know it, muscles weaken. Of course, your home environment also plays a massive role in fall prevention. Poor lighting, slippery floors, and clutter contribute to the risk of falls among seniors.
Top 5 Fall Prevention Tips for Active Seniors
Stay safe by staying active. Reduce the risk of falling with just five simple steps.
- Stay physically active. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance, and boosts flexibility. Walking, swimming, or yoga are fun and effective. Mix aerobic, strength, and balance exercises for best results.
- Wear good shoes. Don’t go for cute; instead, pick functional. Choose shoes that provide good support. Look for non-slip soles. Most importantly, any shoes you wear need to fit well. Loose or high-heeled shoes increase the risk of slipping and tripping.
- Invest in home safety. Remove clutter and tape down rugs with non-slip backing. There’s no shame in putting up grab bars in critical areas like bathrooms. Improve your home’s lighting. Something as simple as some brighter lightbulbs can make a big difference.
- Check your eyes and ears. Good vision and hearing are critical for maintaining balance. If it’s been a while, call today and schedule vision and hearing checkups. Updating prescriptions for glasses or hearing aids makes you more confident as you move around.
- Review medications. Be sure to look closely at the side effects. Some medications cause dizziness or drowsiness, which increases the risk of falls. Talk with your doctor to ensure your medications aren’t contributing to the risk of falling.
Neighbors at Crane’s Mill Have an Advantage
Senior fall prevention is much easier when you have fitness equipment that strengthens core muscles to prevent falls. These aren’t the weight machines and training equipment from your average gym. Those are usually designed for individuals focused on building muscle. You want senior-oriented equipment that focuses on maintaining and strengthening muscles.
Another great advantage is the indoor heated swimming pool. Even if you don’t participate in water aerobics classes, lap swimming is an excellent exercise. It strengthens your muscles, which helps prevent falls. It also keeps you fit. And, as we already said, being active and fit is an excellent advantage for senior fall prevention.
What’s Keeping You?
With the right knowledge and support, you can reduce your risk of falling and stay active and independent. If you haven’t tried these amenities, it’s time to do so. Bring a neighbor and do it together! And if you don’t yet live here, what’s keeping you? Talk to a friendly representative to find out more by calling us at (973) 276-6700 or scheduling a tour!