Did you know?
- Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Canadians.
- Falls account for 85% of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations.
- Falls are the cause of 95% of all hip fractures.
- 20-30% of seniors in our communities experience one or more falls each year
(Statistics Canada, n.d.)
Here are some factors that can increase the risk of falls and what you can do to reduce them:
Risk Factors: | Recommendations to prevent falls |
Poorly lit areas | Turn the lights on when it may be hard to see |
Cluttered walkways or stairs | Ensure walkways and stairs are cleared of any objects or clutter |
Loose fitting foot ware or untied shoelaces | Make sure you have well-fitted shoes and that your shoelaces are always done up |
Medications | Get to know the possible side effects of medications you take |
Balance or gait deficits | Practice balancing with assistance or in a supervised environment to promote muscle development and brain-body connection |
Rugs or carpets that are not secured in place | Secure loose rugs or placemats to the ground with tape or other products to avoid them lifting while you are walking |
Muscle weakness | Participate in regular exercise programs such as walking, range of motion exercises, and even weightlifting exercises |
Acute or chronic illness and disabilities | Illness or disabilities can alter our mental state by decreasing awareness and perception. o (Including UTIs, pain, cognitive impairment, and more) |
Inadequate diet | Ensure you are eating a well-rounded diet full of nutrients to promote physical and mental health. |
Poor or unpredictable weather | Always be aware and move with the different elements and take precautions as necessary. (Walking slower, using a vehicle for transport, etc.) |
If you or your loved one is needing more assistance with ambulating safely in the home, our Compassionate Heart Team is here to help. We are a team of nurses and PSWs who love caring for members of our community. Give us a call today at 289-252-1975.
Author: Rebecca E(Community Nurse)
Resources
Public Health Agency Canada. (n.d.). Seniors falls in Canada. chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/migration/phac-aspc/seniors-aines/publications/public/injury-blessure/seniors_falls-chutes_aines/assets/pdf/seniors_falls-chutes_aines-eng.pdf