The phrase “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up!” originally heard in 80’s commercials for medical emergency communication devices has made waves across pop culture. The campiness of the acting has been ridiculed in many memes, but the effects of a fall can have devastating impacts for senior citizens. Falls are the leading cause of injury in seniors, result in 95% of all hip fractures in older adults and often lead to long hospitalizations.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution to avoiding falls, but looking after general health is a good place to start. Eating a well balanced diet helps to prevent bone and muscle loss, decreasing an aging person’s risk level. As seniors may not experience strong thirst even when dehydrated, drinking water regularly is recommended. Exercising daily helps with muscle maintenance and balance.
The environment in which a person is living in can also be altered to provide a higher level of safety. Well lit homes with little clutter have fewer tripping hazards. Non-slip surfaces in tubs and showers are helpful, as well as storing items in places that are easy to access.
Mobility aids provide great support and increased levels of safety to those who need them. Increased levels of independence, confidence and self esteem, as well as reduced levels of pain are a few benefits. If using a mobility aid, ensure that proper training is in place and that you feel secure in your ability to use the device.
Falls are not always avoidable, but taking precautions such as these can improve a person’s quality of life and substantially decrease their risk of having to yell that cheesy line from the commercial. BISEP encourages all senior citizens to stay safe and would like to thank the Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation for providing the research used in this article as part of their Fall Prevention Month campaign. Please visit their website for further resources: https://www.fallpreventionmonth.ca/
For more information about BISEP please visit our website: https://www.bisep.org/
