Big Kids Need to Avoid the Fall

Falls can lead to life altering and even life ending injuries. They can result in decreased mobility and a loss of independence. Fall prevention is something that we should concern ourselves with throughout our lifespan. What can you do now to lessen your risk for falls today as well as in your senior years?

Nutrition – Remember not only do we need calcium; we also need Vitamin D to help us absorb the calcium.

Exercise – Make sure your exercise routine includes movements that improve balance, endurance, strength and flexibility

Home Safety- Use a Home Safety Checklist to assist you in making sure that the interior and exterior of your home is free from fall risks. Add grip bars in the bathroom, proper lighting and remove throw rugs and clutter along your walking path. Organize Neighbor Check Chains and utilize alert systems so that you can get help if falls do occur. Keep a cordless LED light on your nightstand to light your path during late night trips to the bathroom. 

Know Your Limits- have an awareness of changes that occur in your vision, hearing, and physical abilities. Think about asking for assistance before climbing a high ladder. Carry things up to the attic in smaller bundles. Improve lighting in dark areas.

Also limit certain substances. Cigarettes and alcohol block calcium and weaken bones. Many substances can decrease awareness and balance leading to falls. 

Avoid Risky Behaviors- Walking on slick surfaces, rushing to get to the phone, not following safety recommendations at job or recreation sites can put you at risk. Motorized vehicles that offer limited protection such as scooters are also a frequent cause of dangerous falls. Avoid walking in bad weather or on wet surfaces, take your time and get where you’re going safely, follow safety requirements at work and at play. Think twice about using scooters. If you do, wear proper protection like a well-fitting helmet and bright clothing when riding motorized devices.

Falls can lead to life altering and even life ending injuries. They can result in decreased mobility and a loss of independence. Fall prevention is something that we should concern ourselves with throughout our lifespan. What can you do now to lessen your risk for falls today as well as in your senior years?

Nutrition – Remember not only do we need calcium; we also need Vitamin D to help us absorb the calcium.

Exercise – Make sure your exercise routine includes movements that improve balance, endurance, strength and flexibility

Home Safety- Use a Home Safety Checklist to assist you in making sure that the interior and exterior of your home is free from fall risks. Add grip bars in the bathroom, proper lighting and remove throw rugs and clutter along your walking path. Organize Neighbor Check Chains and utilize alert systems so that you can get help if falls do occur. Keep a cordless LED light on your nightstand to light your path during late night trips to the bathroom. 

Know Your Limits- have an awareness of changes that occur in your vision, hearing, and physical abilities. Think about asking for assistance before climbing a high ladder. Carry things up to the attic in smaller bundles. Improve lighting in dark areas.

Also limit certain substances. Cigarettes and alcohol block calcium and weaken bones. Many substances can decrease awareness and balance leading to falls. 

Avoid Risky Behaviors- Walking on slick surfaces, rushing to get to the phone, not following safety recommendations at job or recreation sites can put you at risk. Motorized vehicles that offer limited protection such as scooters are also a frequent cause of dangerous falls. Avoid walking in bad weather or on wet surfaces, take your time and get where you’re going safely, follow safety requirements at work and at play. Think twice about using scooters. If you do, wear proper protection like a well-fitting helmet and bright clothing when riding motorized devices.