All we want for Christmas is for everyone to stay free of falling. Fall prevention is very important, especially for older people. As we age our bones become more brittle, our muscles may lose some of their mass, and our balance may become worse. When you put all three of these together it makes the perfect storm for possible slips and trips.
The CDC reports that every year one out of three people over the age of 65 will fall. Falls can be very dangerous for people who are older because they are more likely to sustain a broken bone due to the impact. This can rob them of their independence and make them feel helpless. It’s of the most crucial importance to prevent falls as much as possible in the elderly. This all starts in making sure their feet and legs are strong. Some ways to prevent falls include:
- Start an exercise program. Even just daily walks around the block can keep your muscles from atrophying. Discuss with your doctor the best way to implement such a program into your daily life so that you are doing it safely.
- Work on balance exercises. Things that involve balance (climbing stairs, dancing, and lifting weights) will all help improve your balance. Furthermore, they will keep you active and using various muscle groups.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that have nonskid soles.
- Avoid wearing high heels or any other type of shoe that makes you feel unstable.
- Tie your shoelaces.
- If you have difficulty putting on your shoes you can always use a long-handled shoehorn.
- Never walk in your socks or stockings. Socks will always make any surface feel more slippery than it is. Either wear regular shoes or slippers with nonskid soles. Also, remember not to go barefoot because of the risk of stepping on something sharp.
If you follow all of these tips you will take away some of the risks associated with falling. For more information on how to avoid falling please call Dr. Peyman Elison and Dr. Viedra Elison at (623) 584-5556 to schedule an appointment with us at Fixing Feet Institute in Surprise, AZ.
