Whether it’s tripping over a loose cord, an unsecured rug or even over your own feet – falls can happen in the blink of an eye. It’s no secret that, as you age, injuries from falling become a greater risk. Falling can lead to broken bones and other serious injuries that can impact your quality of life. Below, we’ve gathered some helpful tips to help prevent falling in your own home.
Stay active
Don’t let the fear of falling curb your physical activity. It is actually better to stay moving, so take a walk or do low-impact exercises to stay active. Yoga is a great option if you want to restore your balance and strengthen your muscles. Any kind of movement that keeps your muscles and joints flexible will allow you to be more prepared in case of a fall. If you are concerned about accidentally injuring yourself, reach out to your doctor, and they can advise you on a safe exercise routine.
Remove obstacles
One of the best ways to prevent falls is to remove the obstacles in your home. Throw away or move anything that is in your way, and don’t let clutter pile up. Make your walkways clear to lessen the risk of tripping and falling. Be sure to check electrical cords, repair loose flooring and secure your rugs. Furniture in the middle of a high-traffic area should be rearranged so it’s not a potential tripping hazard.
Install assistance
Adding railings in difficult-to-navigate areas, like the stairs or in the garage, is a smart idea if you’re at risk of falling. Consider installing grab bars and non-slip material for your bathtub or shower, as well as a shower seat. For any room in your home, it’s wise to have bright lighting, so if you get up in the middle of the night, you can safely make your way to your destination.
The potential of falling is scary, but taking precautions can ease that worry. At Compwell, we empower our patients to be in control of their health, and we help them gain control over lifestyle routines, such as fall prevention. Our services achieve meaningful health results by encompassing what is important to the patient – including lifestyle, goals and motivations – while utilizing the latest evidence-based clinical guidelines to drive decisions. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about our services.