It's a fact of life that the older we get, the more we need to take care of our bodies to live happier and healthier lives. Falling at home (or outside) can be frightening for many elderly people, which is why the best fall detection sensors are growing in popularity. These types of devices usually comprise a base unit and a pendant or bracelet that speak to each other. When you fall, an alert is triggered and you are connected to staff in a call centre who can help you.
But it isn't just the elderly who are susceptible to falling - indeed, with a healthy diet and exercise routine, there is no reason why as a senior you aren't able to retain good mobility. People of any age with certain health conditions can be susceptible to falling too. With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you prevent a potential fall...
1. See your doctor
If you believe that a fall would seriously incapacitate you, make an appointment with your physician immediately. Discussing your concerns with your doctor is probably the most vital preventative step you can take to avoid a potential emergency.
Your doctor should know your specific medical needs best, and should be able to make solid recommendations and write prescriptions for medication that could help lessen your risk. For help with the cost of ongoing medical care, see our guides to the best health insurance companies and the best Medicare Part D plans.
2. Stay active
Inactivity contributes to a great deal of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and more. If you are as physically active as possible, you will drastically reduce the likelihood that you'll end up in a situation where you cannot bounce back after a nasty fall. For help getting a little more active each day, read our guide to the best fitness trackers, or consider walking exercise indoors using one of the best treadmills.
3. Get your vision checked
Sometimes falls are caused because someone simply couldn't see what is in front of them. If you wear corrective lenses or contacts, make sure your prescription is up to date. If you've never worn glasses, be sure to see an ophthalmologist from time to time, especially if you think your eyesight is getting worse. Take a look at our guides to the best eyeglasses online and the best contact lenses online for where to buy both types of vision wear.
4. Equip your home
If you suffer from a condition that makes you more vulnerable to unexpected falls, you should install some simple safety devices around your home. Equipment such as grab bars and railings in trouble spots like stairs and in the bathroom can go a long way toward helping you from hitting the ground if you lose your balance. Take a look at our guides to the best walk-in tubs and the best stairlifts for inspiration.
5. Take your vitamins
This may sound like something parents tell their children. It is, though, because it's such a great piece of advice. Adults, like children, often don't get the vitamins and minerals they need to live a fully healthy lifestyle. Taking daily supplements can help prevent health conditions that would make you more vulnerable to falls or make a simple fall more likely to become a life- threatening event.
6. Maintain your home
Homes are where most falls take place, so take care that you remove any potential dangers that may be in your path. Simple chores such as keeping your driveway free of ice and snow and keeping a supply of light bulbs on hand so that your house is always illuminated can go a long way toward keeping you on your feet and not lying on the floor.
These are just a few simple things you can do to reduce the likelihood that you'll experience a potentially catastrophic fall. While no precautions can protect against all possible accidents, taking steps to reduce the risk of a fall is always a good idea.
