Let’s face it: We’re all getting older. As we age, our bones become more fragile. Our reflexes are no longer lightening-quick. Our eyes just might be playing tricks on us. These factors can lead to the likelihood of a serious tumble. And falls can cost us — not only in terms of treatment, but in terms of independence and even our lives.

elderly_fall

Who’s at risk :

If you are over age 65, having four or more of these risk factors will increase your risk of falling by 80 percent:

  1. A history of fallsfalls_causes
  2. Arthritiscouple
  3. Depressiondepression_s7_3_people_sitting
  4. Dizzinessbrain
  5. Chronic disease
  6. Greater than four medications
  7. An acute illness

If you see yourself in the above list, be sure to get annual health screenings — doctors’ orders!

Reducing your risk

Don’t let fear of falling cramp your lifestyle. Use these tips to stay safely upright, Ms. Vanderbilt suggests:

  • Check your meds.
  • drug-pillsTaking four or more medications ups your chance of falling down. This includes over-the-counter medicines. Talk to your doctor to see if any can be safely eliminated.
  • See the eye doctor annually.
  • kidney-dialysis_aWearing specs that aren’t up to snuff is a factor in falls among the elderly. A yearly eye exam will reveal whether your prescription — or your glasses — needs adjusting.
  • Outfit those feet. EnviroMost seniors know to skip the heels. But bare-footing it or staying in stockings or socks at home also increases your risk of falls. Look for non-skid footwear, including slipper socks with non-skid treads on the bottom.
  • Work out.
  • Tai Chi outdoors
    Tai_Chi_outdoors

    TaiChi stretchingsenior
    getty_rf_photo_of_woman_doing_yoga

    Incorporate exercises that blend muscle strengthening with balance retraining, such as tai chi.

  • Lean on me.falls-among-elderly-a
  • Better to use a cane or walker than to lose your balance. Put pride aside so that you can get around safely.
  • A family affair.
  • GranddaughterA strong social network of family and/or friends means fewer falls. If you’re feeling isolated, reach out. Maybe someone is waiting to hear from you!Falls

Preventing a fall is your best bet for remaining active and independent as you age. If you experienced one fall you will face
and mono-phobia as well and you might develop regressive behavior.Ambulophobia (1)

Published by Dr.Adel Serag

Dr. Adel Serag is a senior consultant psychiatrist , working clinical psychiatry over 30 years.