Take the time to increase awareness around falls health and injury prevention.
As we age, our risk of falling increases. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults, but there are many things you can do to prevent them.
Here are some tips on how to prevent falls and stay healthy for elderly throughout Kalamazoo:
- Stay active. Exercise is one of the best things you can do to prevent falls. It helps to strengthen your muscles and improve your balance. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Make your home safe. There are many things you can do to make your home safer and reduce your risk of falling. Here are a few tips or you can ask for a home assessment:
- Remove tripping hazards, such as loose cords and clutter.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on stairs.
- Make sure your home is well-lit, especially at night.
- Use a non-slip mat in the bathtub or shower.
- Get regular checkups. Be sure to see your doctor for regular checkups, especially if you have any health conditions that could increase your risk of falling, such as arthritis or osteoporosis. Your doctor can also talk to you about medications that may increase your risk of falls and help you to find safer alternatives.
- Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help you to maintain a healthy weight and strong muscles, both of which can reduce your risk of falling. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for good health and well-being. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to focus and coordinate, which can help to reduce your risk of falls. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
In addition to the above tips, there are also a number of resources available in Kalamazoo County to help elderly residents stay healthy and prevent falls. Here are a few examples:
- Senior centers. Senior centers offer a variety of activities and programs for older adults, including exercise classes, social events, and support groups.
- Home health care agencies. Home health care agencies can provide assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and cooking. They can also provide physical therapy and other services to help seniors stay healthy and independent.
- Transportation services. Transportation services can help seniors to get to and from appointments, social events, and other activities.
If you are an elderly resident anywhere in Kalamazoo County, please know that there is help available to help you stay healthy and prevent falls. Please reach out to the resources listed above, Contact us today to learn more or call us at 269-204-6537 for a free assessment of your needs. Don’t wait.
Tags: Home Care, Fall prevention Week, home safety, Fall Risk, Companion Care, Dementia Care, Transportation Services, Family Caregiver Support
