Tips To Prevent Falls In Osteoporosis
Falls are the commonest cause of preventable morbidity in adults older than 60 years of age. As people age, physical conditions and aging may cause fall more likely and hence fall prevention is very important. By preventing falls we can prevent a lot of unnecessary surgery and morbidity. The quality of life is also improved to a great extent. The following strategies may be of benefit in fall prevention:
- Physical activity is probably the best way to prevent falls. Physical activity keeps you fit, makes the bones and muscles strong and improves posture, stability and flexibility. You can activities like walking, cycling or water workouts.
- If you are afraid of starting physical activity you may work on a carefully chosen exercise program under a physical therapist. It improves your balance, flexibility, muscle strength and gait.
- Before you start exercising take time to consult with your doctor. Make a list of all the medicines taken by you and seek the advice of your doctor about which may be causing falls. Your doctor may stop sedatives and some other drugs which may be causing falls.
- Also talk about any problems with your hearing or vision. Hearing and visual problems are a major cause of falls in the elderly.
- Unstable, inappropriate footwear is another common cause of falls. High heels, floppy slippers and shoes with slick soles are commonly implicated in falls. Hence always choose your shoes with care.
- Have your feet properly measured and wear shoes that fit properly. Prefer sturdy shoes with non skid soles.
- Another common cause of falls is the way our homes are designed and furnished. There are plenty of hazards around the home, removing them can reduce the incidence of falls.
- Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways, move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas, secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing — or remove loose rugs from your home, repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting right away, store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach, immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food, use non-skid floor wax and use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.
- Another key improvement needed in most homes is an increase in lighting. So place night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Also place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs. Ensure to make clear paths to light switches that aren't near room entrances. Consider trading traditional switches for glow-in-the-dark or illuminated switches. Turn on the lights before going up or down stairs. And finally store flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages.
- Other than all these methods some people may require assistive devices to keep one steady. Some of the assistive devices commonly required are hand rails for both sides of stairways, nonslip treads for bare-wood steps, A raised toilet seat or one with armrests, grab bars for the shower or tub, A sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub — plus a hand-held shower nozzle for bathing while sitting down
If necessary you can seek the help of an occupational therapist to redesign your home and work space to prevent falls. Remember it is better to prevent falls rather than deal with the multitude of problems that come after a fall.