November is Fall Prevention month

Falls are a serious concern for seniors, and you may be at greater risk than you realize. According to a recent report, each year, approximately one-third of seniors suffer a fall. And among Canadian seniors, falls are responsible for more injuries resulting in hospitalizations and deaths than any other injury-related cause. So it’s wise to take precautions to prevent falls. Here’s what you can do. 

Remove Hazards

One of the easiest ways to prevent a fall is to remove hazards in your home. These include things like rugs, cords, and clutter. Never leave items on stairs. And clean up any spills as soon as they happen. Additionally, in the winter, clear snow and ice from your walkways prior to using them. 

Slow Down

Slowing down can help you prevent a fall. For instance, standing slowly helps keep you from getting dizzy. You should also slow down when you walk to avoid tripping. Try to avoid slippery surfaces whenever possible. But if you are caught out in slippery weather, take slow, deliberate steps. And make sure to center your balance on your weight-bearing foot before lifting the other foot. 

Shine a Light

Lighting makes a big difference when it comes to preventing falls. It’s important to have good lighting everywhere you walk. So be sure you have good lighting in your bedroom, hallways, living room, stairs, and walkways. And if you’ll be outdoors in the dark, always carry a flashlight so you can see clearly.

Use Assistive Devices

If you have mobility challenges, it’s important to use all the assistive devices your doctor recommends. Canes and walkers help you stay steady. Grab bars and handrails are important for washrooms and stairs. And if you have trouble standing for long periods of time, a shower chair is a good idea to reduce your chance of falling while you bathe. 

Wear Proper Footwear

Good shoes are essential to preventing falls. That’s why it’s not a good idea to skimp when you purchase shoes. Instead, opt for sturdy shoes with adequate tread to give you a good grip while you walk. And if you must wear dress shoes, add non-slip pads to the soles to help prevent you from slipping. 

Visit Your Physician

Visiting your physician on a regular basis can help you prevent a fall. Your hearing and vision should be evaluated on a regular basis so your doctor can prescribe hearing aids and glasses if necessary. Additionally, it’s important to make sure you take your medications properly and let your doctor know if you experience side effects like lightheadedness, sleepiness, or dizziness, which could make you more prone to a fall. 

Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle

The better you care for your body, the less likely you are to fall. Eating nutritious meals and staying hydrated help you maintain your strength and avoid feeling dizzy. Getting enough sleep also helps you stay alert. And exercising at least a few times a week helps you stay strong and improves your balance, making it less likely you will experience a fall.

At Normandy Living, we strive to ensure our facility is as safe as possible for our residents. That’s why all our suites are fully accessible for all mobility needs. And we include safety features, like emergency lighting, throughout the facility. We also take care of snow removal and ground maintenance. 

Are you ready to move to an independent living community that values your safety? Come visit us! We’d love to take you on a tour of Normandy Living, and we’re happy to answer all your questions.