Falls are a common part of aging and a leading cause of injuries in seniors. Whether you’re aging in place or in a senior living community, it’s possible to prevent falls with proper proactive measures in place. The first step in fall prevention is understanding the key factors that contribute to falls and learning ways to combat them. Here are some simple ways to reduce your risk for falling in your golden years.
Wear proper footwear
Avoid wearing socks around your home as they can be slippery on certain surfaces, especially tile and hardwood. Instead, opt for proper fitting closed-toe shoes. If you wear slippers, make sure they have a nonskid sole.
Use nightlights
If you frequently get up in the middle of the night, whether to use the bathroom or grab a drink of water, it can be dangerous to walk through your home in the dark. Consider leaving a light on at night or installing motion-activated lights throughout your home to help you safely navigate your living space when it is dark.
Stay up-to-date with your annual eye exams
It is common to experience changes to your vision as you age. As your eyesight declines, your risk of falling increases. Make sure you have your eyes checked at least once a year and adjust the prescription for your glasses as needed.
Understand your medications
Many medications can have side effects that impact balance and cause dizziness. Make sure you understand these side effects, especially when taking a new medication to avoid stumbles and falls. Always talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about any medications you are taking.
Exercise to improve balance and strength
Making exercise a regular habit can improve your balance and strength as you get older, which decreases your risk of falling. This can be something as simple as walking or taking a group fitness class with friends. If you or your loved one are part of a senior living community like Vista Grande Villa, you may have access to an on-site exercise room and fitness classes, like power yoga, square dancing, and balance-focused classes specifically designed for older adults.
Keep your floors as free of clutter as possible
The majority of falls happen at home. For this reason, seniors should keep their floors clear of clutter to prevent fall-related accidents. Remove area rugs, repair or get rid of tripping hazards, and use handrails on staircases as simple ways to make your home safer.
Talk to your doctor
Call your doctor right away if you feel unsteady or notice problems with your vision or balance. Keep an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your own personal risks and tips for fall prevention. Your doctor can review your medications and recommend supplements or changes to your diet to improve your overall health.
We Prioritize Safety at Vista Grande Villa
At VGV, we take the health and safety of our residents very seriously. Each resident’s living space is regularly inspected for repairs and hazards, and residents have access to emergency alert pulls and pendants should an emergency ever occur.
Need a little extra help getting dressed or bathing? Could you benefit from laundry or housekeeping services? We can also provide personalized care for your specific needs so that you can confidently live your life to the fullest while preventing your risk for injuries and falls.
To learn more about our community or to schedule a tour, contact Vista Grande Villa today.
