Staying strong and steady can help everyone preserve their independence
Most falls don’t happen during risky activities such as roof repairs or downhill skiing. They happen while reaching for a light switch, stepping out of the shower or getting up too quickly from a chair. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults age 65 and older. Each year in the U.S., more than 14 million older adults — about 1 in 4 — report falling. Health factors such as certain medications, vision loss, muscle weakness, and low vitamin D or iron can increase fall risk. Home hazards and footwear with poor stability or traction — such as high heels, loose slippers and shoes with slick soles —also can contribute. Many falls happen because of several small issues at once. A single fall can be life changing. It can affect mobility, confidence and the ability to live independently. The good news is that many falls can be prevented. Physical therapy, regular movement, exercise and use of technology can help one stay safe and active.
More than a misstep: Falls often result in broken bones and hospital stays. Someone who was once self-sufficient may suddenly need daily assistance or long-term care. After a fall, many people develop a fear of falling again. This emotional harm can lead to moving less, avoiding activities and becoming weaker over time — which in turn makes people more prone to falls.
Seek help soon after a fall. If one is hospitalized, it’s likely that a physical therapist will appear within 24 hours. Initial care can identify injuries, restore motion and reduce risk of future falls. Even if one is not hospitalized, benefit can result from early home physical therapy. A fall may be an early warning sign balance, strength or reaction time has changed. A physical therapist can help one to identify why the fall occurred, address pain or stiffness, and help with return to daily activities. The therapist also can help create a customized program of balance and strengthening exercises to reduce future fall risk.
Tech safety net: While physical therapy helps prevent falls, fall detection technology may help reduce harm if a fall happens. Prolonged time being down after a fall can lead to complications such as dehydration, pressure ulcers (bedsores), and muscle breakdown that causes organ damage. Prompt medical response is especially critical for fractures and head injuries, where delays can lead to more severe outcomes. Fall-detection devices — such as wearables or sensor-based systems — can help by automatically alerting emergency services or designated contacts. Fall-detection devices worn on a lanyard around the neck are easy to put on and remove. Smartwatches and fitness trackers are increasingly popular options that also track steps, heart rate and daily activity. However, these tools do have limitations. Some people forget to wear their devices or charge them. Others may have trouble using the technology during a stressful moment. Devices with small buttons, clasps or touch screens can be challenging for people with arthritis or limited hand strength. False alarms are another concern. Alerts triggered when no fall has occurred — from a dropped device or sitting down quickly — can be frustrating. Falls are daunting, but they may lead to improvement of many factors that lead to falls. Physical therapy and fall-detection technology can add an extra layer of protection, especially if one lives alone. Together, strengthening activities, planning and appropriate gadgets can help keep one doing enjoying activities.
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Below is a link to obtain my books available for purchase (digital or print versions):
Website: https://radiantmortontavel.com/
To be placed on the mailing list for future blogs, contact: tavelmorton@gmail.com
Below is a link to obtain my books available for purchase (digital or print versions):
Website: https://radiantmortontavel.com/
To be placed on the mailing list for future blogs, contact: tavelmorton@gmail.com
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