As you get older, your risk of falling typically increases, so it’s important to take the necessary measures to stay safe and avoid suffering complications from falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), around 3 million older adults are treated each year in emergency departments for fall injuries. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself from falls, including staying physically active and ensuring your home has the safety modifications and mobility aids you require. Read on to learn more about the risk of falls as an older adult and review helpful tips to maintain your health and wellness.
Risks of Falls for Older Adults
More than 1 in 4 people aged 65 years or older falls each year, and the risk of falling (and fall-related injuries) rises as individuals age. A fall for an older adult can be much more severe than for a younger person, posing a major risk to their well-being and independence. Understanding the various factors that contribute to this risk is crucial in developing effective preventive strategies. Here are some of the risk factors that contribute to the increased likelihood of falls for older adults:
Reduced hearing, eyesight, and reflexes
Cognitive issues like dementia
Age-related loss of muscle mass or bone density
Greater prevalence of health conditions that affect your nerves, feet, or blood vessels
Side effects of medications, like dizziness or confusion
The consequences of a fall for seniors can range from broken bones and fractures to head injuries. They can even have psychological impacts like anxiety and depression from an increased fear of falling.
Tips for Seniors to Lower the Risk of Falling
While the consequences of a fall can be severe, especially for older adults, there are several strategies seniors can use to lower their fall risk, including:
Stay Physically Active: Engaging in regular physical activity can help seniors improve their strength, balance, and flexibility. Exercises such as walking, Tai Chi, and water aerobics can be particularly beneficial.
Make Home Safety Modifications: There are several safety modifications older adults can make to their home environment to reduce fall hazards, including installing grab bars in bathrooms, improving lighting, and removing clutter to prevent tripping over household items. Seniors can even get a home safety assessment to help determine where improvements can be made.
Wear Proper Footwear: Wearing supportive, properly fitting footwear with non-slip soles can provide stability and reduce the risk of slipping and falling.
Use Mobility Aids: If necessary, use assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to support mobility and prevent falls.
Focus on Nutrition and Hydration: Maintaining a balanced diet and staying adequately hydrated can help older adults support their overall health and reduce the risk of weakness or dizziness.
Get Regular Health Check-Ups: Seniors should schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers to address any health concerns, especially issues that may increase the risk of falling, like impairments in their vision, hearing, or mobility.
Find More Health and Wellness Tips for Seniors with SelectQuote
In addition to eating well and getting adequate rest, reducing your risk of falling can go a long way toward keeping you healthy and mobile as you age. If you’re interested in exploring more wellness and lifestyle knowledge, SelectQuote can help. Our library of lifestyle articles can help support a healthy mind and body for seniors, providing you with tips and resources so you have the information you need to continue living well as you age.
