September is National Fall Prevention Awareness Month. According to reports by the CDC, every year 37 million older adults experience falls, and 3 million ER visits are caused by falls. The National Council on Aging provides a free online tool called Falls Free CheckUp to help assess your risk of falling and provide resources to prevent falls.
Looking for more information on fall prevention for seniors? San Marino Retirement Community is here to help. Here are five everyday ways you can prevent falls and accidents:
Thoughtful Home Design: Safety First
We spend a lot of time at home, which is why it’s crucial to design your living space with safety in mind to reduce the risk of falls. Here are some key things to remember:
- Keep your home free of cords, clutter, and other potential tripping hazards.
- Secure rugs to the floor with non-slip pads or tape.
- Ensure proper lighting, particularly in high-risk areas such as bathrooms and stairwells.
- Install handrails on staircases and place accessible grab bars in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and shower, to provide easy access for support.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Whether indoors or outdoors, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any potential tripping hazards. Key things to watch for include:
- Uneven sidewalks or pavement.
- Slippery leaves, sticks, and puddles.
- Items left on the floor, such as bags, purses, or shoes.
- Furniture legs that stick out.
In addition, wearing footwear with proper traction for the terrain is also always a smart choice for both inside and outside.
Strengthen Your Balance with Exercise
Keep yourself steady on your feet with simple exercises like this one:
- Stand beside or behind a stable chair (without wheels), using it for support if needed.
- Shift your weight to one leg and lift the other off the floor.
- Hold the position for several seconds, up to a minute, then switch legs and repeat.
For added stability, consider using a stylish cane or walking stick. There are many designs available to suit different tastes, and they can even compliment your outfit as a fashionable accessory.
Fall “Correctly” To Minimize Injuries
If you do find yourself falling, there are ways to limit the impact, including:
- Aiming for a soft landing: Try to land on your bottom or another soft area to cushion the impact.
- Bending your elbows: If you catch yourself with your hands, bend your elbows to absorb the impact and protect your wrists and joints.
- Protecting your head: If you are falling forward, turn your head to the side to shield your face. If falling backward, tuck your chin to protect the back of your head.
- Go with the momentum: Whenever possible, roll and move with the direction of the fall instead of stopping suddenly. This helps reduce the strain on your joints and bones.
How to Reduce The Risk of Falls by Living in a Senior Living Community
Living in a senior living or retirement community can significantly reduce the risk of falls thanks to:
- Regularly maintained outdoor areas that are regularly cleared of hazards like ice, snow, and uneven sidewalks.
- Thoughtfully designed community and private spaces with wide walkways, elevators, and step-free entrances.
- Convenient access to classes that help maintain and strengthen your balance and muscles. At San Marino, for example, we offer convenient Balance and Strength Programs to help you stay steady on your feet, as well as group exercise classes, outdoor recreational activities, and so much more!
Experience an Active, Maintenance-Free Life at San Marino Retirement Community
At San Marino, our programs and activities are crafted to help you stay physically strong while nurturing your mind and spirit. Embrace an active lifestyle in our senior living community, free from the worries of upkeep and home maintenance.
Contact us to learn more about our offerings.