Anyone is at risk of falling at home, whether it be due to an accident or a simple trip walking from room to room. While most kids and younger adults can just hope right back up and move on with their day, falling can be much more serious for older adults.
One in three adults over the age of 65 will have at least one fall a year, and there is always the risk that one of those falls will lead to serious injury or even death.
Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team explains what causes falls and what to do if this happens to you.
What Causes Falls?
Slipping or losing one’s balance are often the most common reasons for falling. This is why we recommended regular exercise! Losing muscle mass as you age can increase your unsteadiness, so building stronger muscles can help you navigate your world with more confidence. You should also wear reliable shoes that will stay securely on your feet, so avoid loose slippers or flip-flops.
Tripping or slipping on clutter around the house can also lead to serious injury. You should keep your home tidy and put things away when you are done using them. Shoes, books, umbrellas and forgotten newspapers can all become hazards in the wrong place.
Helpful Home Maintenance Tasks
- Have any broken or twisted exterior steps fixed quickly.
- Keep your lawn tidy and roll up your hoses after every use.
- Turn your porch light on before leaving in the evening.
- Salt any ice buildup on the ground during the winter.
What Should I Do If I Fall?
If you do fall, the first thing you should do is ensure you are not seriously hurt or too hurt to get up. Moving around after a serious head injury or neck injury can make things worse. If you feel OK and strong enough to get up, move slowly and use any furniture around you to stand up slowly. Find a nearby chair and take a seat so you can evaluate how you feel for a while before carrying on.
If you find that you cannot get back up on your own, calling for help is essential. Hopefully you have your cell phone at all times, so calling a neighbor or trusted friend can easily resolve the situation. If you don’t have your phone and you live alone, call out for help or bang on the wall or floor. These situations can become serious really quickly, so make as much noise as you possibly can.
Additional Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Falls
- Use handrails when walking down steps.
- Install non-slip treads for your bathroom tub or shower.
- Invest in a raised toilet seat or grab bars.
- Move slowly and always be aware of your surroundings.
Did a recent fall leave you hurt? Come see us right away at AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga.
