Let’s Get Balanced! Fall prevention can save a life.
*This post contains affiliate links, at no additional cost to you I am compensated if you purchase after clicking on the links.
Balance, stability, and fall prevention are important aspects of health and wellness for all, but especially for those over 65 right now.
The number one reason for hospital visits, for Boomers, are due to falls.
In fact, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every four older adult is hospitalized due to a fall injury. About 800,000 people will end up with a hip fracture and/or a brain injury every year.
Half of adults 65 and over who fall will not inform their primary care physician (PCP). In turn, these same adults are most likely to have a second fall that will send them to the ER for serious injuries.
Falls happen when….*
- Acute conditions – sudden weakness, loss of balance
- Chronic conditions – COPD, Stroke, MS, MD, Parkinson’s, etc.
- Balance or gait deficits – shuffling, unable to lift feet when walking
- Cognitive impairment – Dementia, Mental illness
- Sensory factors – inner ear issues, poor vision
- Muscle weakness – not just legs, but core muscles
- Reduced fitness – you lose up to 30% of strength when you stop being active
- Behavioral factors – Urinary Tract Infections, Depression, Anxiety
- Environment – steps, thresholds, change of surface level- rug to wood or tile flooring
- Medication affects – dizziness, nausea, fatigue
Some simple enhancements can prevent you from falling.*
- Proper footwear – how long have you had those walking shoes? You should replace your shoes every 500 miles walked.
- Supports and Assistive devices – walkers, canes, walking sticks
- Proper nutrition – protein, vitamins, minerals, WATER
- Adequate sleep – everyone is different on their needs, but get enough! Meditation in the afternoon also boosts your energy level.
- Review medication – talk to your pharmacist to make sure your different medications are not affecting each other.
- EXERCISE – walk, lift light weights, garden, ride a bicycle, dance!
In all Balance is supported by:*
- Eyes and visual system
- Inner ears and vestibular system
- Body’s spatial awareness
- Muscular system
- Bone strength
- Center of gravity – nose over toes with shoulders and hips aligned
Reduce the number one reason for hospital visits and cut back on medical costs and insurance.
Hospital visits are costly, not only financially, but physically as well. Being exposed to others that are ill and possibly isolated from friends and family are a detriment to any human, but most especially older adults.
I have witnessed many negative changes in people after a fall and a visit to the hospital (depression, fear, social isolation, to name a few). It is so very important for everyone to know just how debilitating a fall can be and how small changes can prevent hospital visits.
In future wellness posts…
I will share some exercises to strengthen your ability to balance and prevent falls, along with my new acquaintance, Emily Johnson of Stronger U Senior Fitness, a fitness coach specializing in the senior fitness sector.
Ladies, if you are looking for good looking new walking shoes, check out my affiliate, Johnston and Murphy.
*Emily Johnson, StrongerU Senior Fitness, May, 2020
Good topic! We need all the help we can get at this age. I thought I was in good shape until I fell. I took a balance class at the senior center and visit the fitness center three times a week and walk daily. Then I fell crossing the street in front of my house. Hurt a lot and embarrassing!
Good topic! We need all the help we can get at this age. I thought I was in good shape until I fell. I took a balance class at the senior center and visit the fitness center three times a week and walk daily. Then I fell crossing the street in front of my house. Hurt a lot and embarrassing!
Any help and hints would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you! Working on a new post for some balance exercises. Stay tuned!!