Reducing Fall Risk for Seniors at Home
During September, we at Caring Podiatry recognize Falls Prevention Awareness Month. The statistics are sobering: One in four seniors falls each year, sending one older American to the emergency room every 11 minutes. Fear of falling can cause seniors to isolate themselves in their homes, but did you know that over half of all falls happen at home? Fortunately, there are many ways to make homes safer and decrease the chances of falling.
Fall Proofing Tips
Multiple factors contribute to fall risk. Below are some steps to take to protect yourself or a senior you love.
Start with your feet—It should come as no surprise that foot pain and discomfort are the leading cause of falls. If your feet hurt, you’ll change your gait and try to walk in a way that protects vulnerable areas and avoids pain. This can easily lead to losing your balance and falling. Don’t put off getting foot problems evaluated. Contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) and Neptune (732-455-8700) offices for an appointment and let our podiatrists, Andrew Schmierer, and Craig Shapero treat any podiatric issues you are having promptly.
Consider the Moore Balance Brace—Falling once increases your risk of subsequent falls by 50%. But that doesn’t have to be the case. The Moore Balance Brace helps with several foot issues, such as muscle weakness and fatigue, ankle weakness, and gait instability. It is the only brace clinically proven to reduce postural sway and increase postural stability; that’s why it’s used in our practice. The brace is lightweight, easy to put on and take off, and will improve balance and foot clearance, substantially lowering your chances of falling. Medicare also covers it.
Home Improvements—There are modifications you can make in your home to increase safety:
Add a second handrail on all staircases so there’s a place to hold on with both hands.
Increase lighting, especially in hallways, on stairs, and on the path to the bathroom.
Install grab rails around the toilet and in the shower.
Use no-slip grip strips in the shower and tub and install a seat in the shower.
Remove throw rugs and tack down loose carpet corners.
Declutter the floor—remove stacks of magazines, shoes, and electrical cords from all walking areas.
It’s possible to decrease your fall risk at home. If you have fallen once or have concerns about falling, contact us today to discuss.