Going to hospital has never been enjoyable especially if it’s with an injury. Hospitals now are more frightening especially for an older person, than we could ever have imagined. No-one wants to go unless it is the last resort. Yet older adults have the highest risk of going to hospital as a result of a fall.
That’s why seniors and people living with chronic health conditions need to be proactive and take positive steps to stay injury-free and away from emergency rooms or hospitals.
Most falls are preventable and a good place to start is by picking up any trip hazards – loose floor mats, clutter on the floor, hoses and tools from the garage floor or lying about the yard. Reminding and helping people shows that you care.
It’s time for older people to put on clean spectacles, supportive shoes (see our post “Lets make footwear great again”) and each in their own way, get moving every day.
Even if the weather keeps people indoors, we can still walk, do Tai Chi or strength & balance programs while sitting or standing. It’s time to stock up the stores of older adults’ personal health and resilience. This improves not only their own well-being but that of those they love and their wider community – it’s easy to get started and makes you feel better too.
Staying strong and independent is very inexpensive and helps older people to stay well. Remaining active helps strengthen and move your centre of gravity safely – stockpiling healthy muscles, bones and balance reactions.
Remember to stay safe – check with your GP or registered allied health professional before starting. If you get chest pain, dizziness or other symptoms with activity or movement this is essential. Start slowly while getting used to an activity. Physiotherapists can help with an assessment and plan that best suits you, so why not call or email us today about this important topic.
