Risk of Falling is increased by:
- Conditions that affect balance such as diabetes, heart disease and problems with thyroid, nerves or blood vessels
- Walking and balance disorders like MS or Parkinson’s
- Muscle weakness in the legs and feet
- Foot pain or wearing unsafe footwear
- Medications such as antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, and hypertensive medications among others
- Vision problems including depth perception issues
Minimize falls
- Don’t postpone doctor’s visits, and let them know if you experienced a fall or dizziness
- declutter your home, remove scatter rugs and clear stairs
- Participate in physical activities
- Attend a balance class or Tia Chi
- Have good lighting and use it
- Install grab bars in bath and shower
- Wear supportive, low heeled shoes
On average, people over seventy fall three times per year.
Abstracted from Healthy Times, BlueCrossBlueSheied of MA Fall 2019 by N. Langman 2/2020