PREVENTING FALLS

Falls in the home or outside of the home are a major source of Emergency Room visits every year, here are a few considerations to prevent them and some indications for when you should seek help.

"Polypharmacy" - refers to having multiple medications, in particular, high-level prescriptions that could interact with each other to alter your mentation and awareness. (Dictionary - the simultaneous use of multiple drugs to treat a single ailment or condition.)

Disclaimer: Before undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes, please consult with your physician for appropriateness and additional guidance. The information here is just that...information for educational purposes only, not to provide medical advice or treatment...

Here are some situations to look out for, as well as some protective measures to take to address your risk of falls.

1. Declutter.

A house filled with clutter is a hazard and we've said this before - try cleaning house at least quarterly to remove the accumulation of junk and old items that in the end will just become tripping hazards.

2. Lighting.

Hallways, stairs, outside walkways and garages should have good lighting options. A well lit house at night is both safer and reduces risk of theft etc.

3. Medication considerations.

Certain medications are notorious for contributing to increasing risk of falls, whether its through "orthostatic hypotension" - like diuretics or "reduced alertness" - like medications for neuropathic pain or contributing to "disequilibrium or hypersomnolence" - like known drowsy antihistamines. When reviewing medication labels, make sure to pay attention to this warning and prepare to move slower and less while under the effects of these medications. If you happen to be placed on these medications long-term and live alone or at times are alone, invest in a medical safety alert bracelet or necklace that can let you call for help should you find yourself in a bad spot. Also, know your doses and keep

4. Physical therapy.

If you suffer from physical limitations, beit from arthritis, recent surgery or a recent injury - getting back on your feet as soon as possible is important for your longevity. Pursue physical therapy means as soon as possible and perform the solo exercises as advised. Your own efforts are the most important part of recovery.

5. Proper footwear.

At some point, cute shoes with your outfit will put you in a hospital gown or wear down your joints. Wear appropriate "gear" for the appropriate occasion and reduce your risk of injury. Sandals or flip flops or "slippers" are a major source of foot injury, so be mindful and reduce them to your pool time or beach time.

6. Know if you have weakened bones.

Age appropriate bone scans can reveal whether you have osteopenia or osteoporosis, or reveal if you are at risk. If you are underweight and over 65 you are already at a high risk. Make sure to have this testing done, as most find out sadly after suffering a broken arm or hip. Identifying this early will allow you to take supplements of vitamin D and calcium which will reduce your risks.

7. Grip strength.

An important measurement, as the idea is you will need a strong grip in order to save yourself from a hard fall. Invest in a grip strength trainer (also makes a great gift).

8. Increased risk of falls with illness.

Beware any ailment involving dizziness, fluid loss through vomiting or diarrhea, or high fever as fluid loss leads to fluid depletion which increases the likelihood of orthostatic hypotension to develop. That's when you go to stand up from sitting and either nearly pass out or in fact do pass out which is never good for obvious reasons. This can be even worse if you are a diabetic, have heart problems or are on medications that also contribute to fluid loss like diuretics.

Disclaimer: Before undertaking any dietary or lifestyle changes, please consult with your physician for appropriateness and additional guidance. The information here is just that...information for educational purposes only, not to provide medical advice or treatment...