September 22, 2009

PSA

(Bangor, Maine) – Accidental slips, trips, and falls can be detrimental to an older adult’s health, wellbeing, and ability to live independently. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional falls can be very common. In fact, the CDC says one to three older adults fall each year.

Amy Cotton, MSN, FNP-BC, FNGNA, a nurse practitioner at Rosscare’s Center for Healthy Aging, says falls can be costly, but there are several things you can do to protect yourself from an unintentional fall, “The most important thing older adults can do to prevent falls is to be aware that you may be at risk of falling. We often think of ice covered walkways during the winter months as the culprit but there are many other risk factors for older adults. The CDC has simple guidelines on fall prevention.”

Below are CDC recommendations to avoid a fall:
1. Begin a regular exercise program: Exercising can be one of the best ways to prevent a fall because it makes you stronger. Balance and coordination exercises are especially helpful.
2. Ask your primary care provider (PCP) to review your medication: Some medications or combinations of medications can make you sleepy or dizzy.
3. Have your vision checked: You should have your vision checked at least once a year to make sure you are using the right prescription. Also, conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts, which may develop, can limit your vision.
4. Make your home safer: Remove items you can trip over, remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep them from slipping, keep items you use often in cabinets you can easily reach without a step stool, have grab bars next to your toilet and shower, use a non-slip mat in bathtub and showers, improve the lighting in your house, make sure handrails and lights are available at all staircases, and wear shoes (not slippers) inside and outside the house.

Although we can take measures to prevent falls, Amy suggests wearing an emergency alert button in case an unintentional fall occurs in one’s home or yard. “These devices are another important strategy older adults can consider to maintain health and independence. Immediate access to emergency help when a medical condition develops or a fall occurs is important.”

Rosscare is a member of EMHS. In partnership with First Atlantic Corporation, Rosscare owns and operates assisted living facilities such as Ross Manor and Stillwater Health Care in Bangor, Colonial Health Care in Lincoln, and Dexter Health Care in Dexter. Rosscare also offers services to help seniors live independently, such as Telecare, a free service offering daily check-in calls, Lifeline Medical Alert service, and the Center for Healthy Aging.

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