Assessing Your Fall Risk: Granville Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Offers Four Factors to Watch.
The risk and consequences of falling become greater as we age. Falls are the leading cause of injuries (including ones that cause death) for people the age of 65 and older, according to the National Council on Aging.
The Granville Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing is diligent in preventing falls in our facility, but we know that not everyone has the benefit of an attentive staff available around the clock.
If you are 65 or older, and especially if you have fallen before, you should see your doctor to get a proper fall assessment performed.
In the meantime, the National Council on Aging details risk factors that can help you get a sense of how big a danger falling could be for you or a loved one who is currently living independently.
- Balance
The loss of coordination and flexibility are part of the aging process. Younger people are able to quickly recover from a misstep or a trip. It’s not as easy for a senior to react as quickly. Physical inactivity can worsen issues like coordination and balance.
2. Vision
Low vision can be a problem in general, especially in poorly-lit areas. Medical conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration can exacerbate the problem. Bifocals can also create distortion when it comes to climbing and descending staircases.
3. Medications
It’s no secret that medications can have unwanted side-effects. Several can make you dizzy or drowsy, conditions that can lead to a fall. It’s also important to list all your medications to your doctor, as the way certain medicines interact with others can have unintended consequences.
4. Environment
If you’ve lived in your home for a long time, you may not realize the challenges you face on a daily basis. Things on the top shelf may be hard to reach, it may be hard to use the stairs, or get in and out of the shower. Go through your home (and have a friend or loved one join you to give more of an unbiased opinion) and make notes of ways that it can be easier and safer to accomplish daily tasks.
After your assessment, act
Once you determine the risk factors you face, be sure to act on preventative measures so you don’t fall. That may be making physical changes to your living space, a change of medication, an increase in doctor-approved exercise, or a combination of all three.
While it may seem like a short-term hassle, it will be far easier than dealing with the consequences of a bad fall.
To learn more about our services, visit us in person or online at https://centershealthcare.com/granville_center
