Tuesday, 16 January 2024 00:00

Falls Prevention

Elderly Americans are very susceptible to falls as they get older. Everyone experiences decreases in flexibility, balance, strength, and the senses as they age. This correlates to some eye-opening statistics. 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. An elderly American is being treated for a fall in an emergency room every 11 seconds, and every 19 minutes, an older person dies from falling. In light of these striking statistics, one can see the importance of taking steps to prevent falls.

Finding an exercise program for the elderly is an excellent way to reduce the likelihood of falls. Look for an exercise program that improves strength and balance. Elderly people who live a more sedentary lifestyle, with little physical activity, are at an increased risk of falling. Wearing well-fitted footwear that provides good foot support and cushion will help prevent falls from poorly fitted shoes. Talking to a podiatrist about your susceptibility to falls and about inspecting your prescriptions will help to avoid any medication that could make falls more likely. Due to a decline in the senses among the elderly, having your eyes and hearing checked is recommended.

Around half of all falls occur in the household. Removing tripping hazards in the home and making it more accommodating to older persons can significantly reduce falls. Some notable household changes include increasing lighting around the house, installing grab bars in the shower and bathroom, and making sure the floor is clear of clutter. Other smart options include installing a shower chair, using rubber-bottomed rugs, and placing railings on both sides of stairwells.  

Finally, discuss with a doctor and your family about your fear of falling. This will help to increase awareness among the population on the need for fall prevention. A lack of awareness on the matter, and a downplaying of importance are what increase the risks of falling. Following these tips can help to reduce the risk for yourself and your loved ones.

 

Schedule your foot and ankle podiatry appointment now!

Please feel free to call us at (954) 455-9404 with any questions you have or to schedule an appointment for your foot or ankle problems. You can also make an appointment online now by clicking here. We hope you'll find our foot doctor practice in Hallandale Beach, FL offers the accessibility and personal commitment you look for from a podiatric physician.

While our podiatry office is conveniently located in Hallandale Beach, FL, we serve patients from Miami Dade and Broward County including:

Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, North Miami, Miami, Miami Beach, Miami Lakes, Sunny Isles Beach, Coral Gables, Surfside, Bal Harbour, Plantation, Cooper City, Weston.

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Advanced Podiatric Procedures & Services in the Broward County, FL: Hallandale (Hollywood, Dania Beach, West Park, Fort Lauderdale, Davie) and Miami-Dade County, FL: Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, Oju, North Miami, Golden Beach, Bal Harbour, Opa-locka, Surfside areas